For many, stress is a daily part of life. You may not be able to cut out the source of the stress, but you can work on controlling it by learning how to calm down in tense situations. One of the simplest ways to do that happens to be something you’re doing right now: breathing.

Breathing exercises, like equal breathing, have been credited with all kinds of health benefits, from changing blood pressure to easing asthma. While the full benefits haven’t been studied at length in a clinical setting, breathing exercises have been practiced for centuries by cultures around the world.

How to get started...

Getting started is simple. Take a slow, deep breath, and slowly count to four as you do. When your lungs are full, breathe out just as slowly, also while counting to four. The aim is to take slow, measured breaths, breathing in for the same length of time as you’re breathing out.

If four seconds seems too long (or too short!), you can adjust the time to whatever feels comfortable for you.

Let us know if you give it a go!