Life can often feel like a never-ending race, leaving us feeling exhausted and burnt out.

In this fast-paced world, it’s crucial to slow down and take a breath every now and then.

But we’re not talking about just any ordinary inhale-exhale routine—I’ve got 5 breathing techniques that will truly relax your mind and body.

So sit back, take a deep breath, and get ready to de-stress like a pro!

These techniques are the perfect antidote for those moments when you just want to scream into a pillow or book a one-way ticket to an isolated island.

They’re also a great practice to start the day off right!

So let’s give them a try now!

Cleansing breath

You can set a timer and do from 1 to 3 minutes of this cleansing breath exercise.

Alternate nostril breathing (Anulom Vilom Pranayama)

Ideally, you’d do 10 rounds of this breathing exercise, but do however many rounds is necessary or possible.

Bee breath (Bhrahmari Pranayama)

Box breathing

• Breathe in through the nose for a count of 4.
• Hold for 4 sec.
• Breather out through the nose for a count of 4 sec.
• Hold for 4 sec.
• Do this for 8-10 rounds.

You can do this breathing exercise in any position you wish (standing, sitting, laying down). I like to do it laying down when I can.

When you finish, try to remain still (with your eyes closed, if possible) and notice if anything has shifted.

Breath for releasing tension and stress

Sometimes I like to add arm movements to this breathing exercise. When inhaling, raise your arms. When exhaling, lower them (with force). Just be careful there’s nothing around you, so you don’t hurt yourself.

Bonus

Try these various breathwork techniques and see how they affect you.

Did you enjoy them? Did they bring you some calm? Great! Try to incorporate what worked into your day.

Did something not work for you? Make you irritated instead of calm? No problem. Maybe it just wasn’t for you.

Try these and share in the comments which ones you enjoyed.