Stress is an everyday occurrence, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Without at least some stress, you’re not being sufficiently challenged. And without challenges to overcome, growth is inhibited.
Still, just like most things in life, two much stress can be harmful to your physical and mental health. So, the trick isn’t to get rid of it – it’s to better manage stress and reduce it in proven effective ways.
Breathing exercises are an excellent way to keep personal stress under control.
Here are just a few we think you’ll find helpful:
Belly Breathing
Belly breathing is a great way to release anger and dispel upsetting thoughts; it’s also useful for pain relief and general relaxation.
- Place your right hand over the center of your chest, your left hand over the center of your stomach, and take in a slow deep breath. If the hand on your stomach rises higher than the other, you have successfully drawn that breath deep into your lungs.
- Exhale through your mouth, releasing the breath slowly and completely. When you feel that your lungs are nearly empty, pull your stomach in a little to squeeze out the last bit of air.
- Repeat the above steps four times for a refreshing abdominal breathing exercise.
Once you’re mastered this technique you can stop using your hands.
Counting Breaths
Counting breaths is a simple technique that occupies your mind by keeping it focused on counting each exhaled breath. The goal is a gradual easing of tension.
- Take a few deep breaths and let tension drain away from your shoulders as you concentrate on breathing steadily, slowly, and quietly.
- Repeat the step above four times.
- Start a new cycle of five and keep going until you’re more at peace with the world.
The Calming Breath
Take in a deep breath and hold it for the count of four, then release slowly through slightly pursed lips for the count of eight. The calming breath is also useful if you feel angry or irritated. It can quickly help relax you as gain a sense of clarity and control.
Humidity Relief
When your house is hot and humid, you typically have trouble sleeping – a surefire way to add stress to your life. So, if your AC system is not effectively removing excess humidity from your home, Anthony’s can help in one of two ways: installing a whole-house dehumidifier OR replacing your AC system for overall cooler and more comfortable conditions. Contact us today to learn more or for a free in-home new system proposal.
