It may sound like an obvious reminder, but if you stop and pay attention at any moment during the day, you’ll probably notice that your breathing is often so shallow as to be almost undetectable. Not only are you depriving your body of oxygen, one of its most vital nutrients, but you’re missing many opportunities to release, slowly but steadily, the inevitable build-up of stress and tension caused by life’s ordinary day-to-day challenges.
Try to remind yourself to take a few slow, deep breaths throughout your day. You might even make a little “Don’t Forget to B*R*E*A*T*H*E” sign for your bathroom mirror, car or desk. A few deep breaths can help you maintain your composure and give you a chance to re-group before responding to the next challenge or difficult situation. Whether you notice a dramatic difference or a slight shift in your mood, an increase in conscious deep breathing will have a subtle but powerful effect over time. – AR