Box Breathing

"Breath work" is any type of therapy that utilizes breathing exercises to improve mental, physical and spiritual health. Dr. Andrew Weil, who is a world-renowned pioneer in the field of Integrative Medicine, calls it the simplest and most powerful mind/body technique in his arsenal and says, "If I had to limit my advice on healthier living to just one tip, it would be to learn to breathe correctly."

When you need a quick second to focus or calm down, try box breathing.

• Box breathing is a quick meditation that uses a simple four-second rotation of breathing in, holding your breath, breathing out, holding your breath, and repeating.
• Also known as the Navy SEAL breathing technique, or tactical breathing, it’s a simple and effective way to help regain calm and control of your thoughts when under stress.

Here are the directions for box breathing:

1. Inhale for 4 seconds
2. Hold your lungs full for 4 seconds
3. Exhale for 4 seconds
4. Hold your lungs empty for 4 seconds

Repeat for as many times as you need to calm down.

Tip: Need a visual? Use this image in this link to help you keep time: Quiet Kit Box Breathing