In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become a constant companion for many of us. We rush from task to task, barely pausing to take a full breath. But what if the key to reducing stress, improving focus, and even sleeping better was as simple as breathing differently? By shifting to Light, Slow, Deep (LSD) breathing, we can activate our body’s natural relaxation response, calming the nervous system and bringing us back into balance.
Why Our Breathing is Keeping Us Stressed
Most people unknowingly breathe too quickly, too shallowly, and often through their mouths. This triggers a fight-or-flight response, keeping our bodies in a constant state of alertness. Over-breathing can lead to a decrease in oxygen efficiency, making us feel even more anxious and fatigued.
The Power of Light, Slow, Deep Breathing
By training ourselves to breathe lightly, slowly, and deeply (into the diaphragm, not to be confused with ‘big’), we can shift out of stress mode and into a calmer state.
- Light breathing reduces tension and prevents over-breathing, helping to reduce anxiety
- Slow breathing increases CO2 tolerance, decreases number of breaths per minute, helping to improve HRV
- Deep breathing engages the diaphragm, encouraging full-body relaxation and reducing stress
Try This Simple Breathing Exercise
- Inhale deeply through your nose so that your bottom ribs expand. Make the breath as quiet and gently as possible, for a count of 4
- Exhale for a count of 5-6, again as gently and quietly as possible and through your nose. slightly as you gently and quietly breath out through the nose
- Pause for a moment before your next inhale.
- The aim is to slow down your breathing so you feel a very slight and tolerable need for air. If it feels too much for you extend your inhale into a bigger breath.
- Repeat for 5 minutes.
Practicing this technique regularly can lower stress, improve focus, and help you sleep better.
Breathing is one of the most powerful (and free!) tools for reducing stress and restoring balance. Want to learn more? Join one of our upcoming courses or sessions or 1-2-1 breathing coaching sessions or one of our online Breathing Assessments and experience the power of conscious breathing for yourself. Alternatively book a free discovery call to find out how we can help you.