We are weeks into this pandemic and messages are coming at us from every angle: emails, phone alerts, social media, radio, news, interruptions of regularly scheduled broadcasts, etc. This constant barrage of information, uncertainty, and fear can leave us in a chronic stress state.  Many also have the compounding impact of financial stress, isolation, &/or managing children (and their learning).

While humans are resilient, it is necessary to acknowledge that this time is trying. If we reside in this space for too long, we will start to see the stress manifest through our physical health, our emotional health, our concentration, our decision making, our sleep., etc.

To help with stress management, I want to introduce two breathing techniques that can help you manage the current situation, as well as support you in the future.

What we are aiming for, is slowing the physiological reaction that happens throughout your body (even if you are not completely aware of it) and returning to homeostasis, where we can rest, refuel and restore our bodies and stay strong.

Check out these two breathing techniques that can slowly bring your body from stress (sympathetic) state to a relaxed (parasympathetic) state.

Technique #1: 4-7-8

  1. Deep breath in for a count of 4.
  2. Hold for a count of 7.
  3. Exhale for a count of 8.
  4. Repeat 4-8 times.

Technique #2: Deep Breathing

  1. Take a deep breath in.
  2. Pause at the top of the breath.
  3. Exhale for a count one beat longer than the inhale.
  4. Repeat for 3-5 Minutes.

If you want to watch how it’s done to watch last week’s video: Breathing Techniques During These Stressful Times

P.S Can we truly stop and appreciate the men and women putting their own lives in danger to treat the victims of this virus…and to their families who are also being put at risk. Thank you a 100x over!

P.S.S. Can we just for a minute appreciate the children in our lives, who don’t realize the severity of the situation, only that we are stopping them from being with friends. Oh, the beauty of their innocence!