The Simple Secret to Reducing Stress and Improving Sleep
This Week's Simple Tip
When facing challenges, people commonly know to 'take a deep breath' because it helps to settle their mind and their emotions. It has the same effect as the physical deep sigh of relief breath we experience when we can finally relax because something that has caused us to worry is no longer a problem or danger. We take breathing for granted, but breathing is a quick and simple way to calm our minds and emotions which yields significant health benefits including reduced stress, sleep improvement and increased energy.
This Week's Focus
This week, give yourself a gift by taking some single deep breaths throughout the day - maybe when you wake up, at lunch, before dinner, and before falling asleep. Close your eyes and take a deep, slow breath through your nose, being sure to breathe from your belly. Hold it 5 seconds and then slowly breathe out though your mouth.
Click on the serenity sticky to print, cut and post on your bathroom mirror to remind you of this week's focus. Good luck!
Little Serenity Tidbits
1. Many of us go through the day taking shallow breaths that can actually increase stress levels. The key to healthy breathing is learning how to breathe with our diaphragms, the same way newborns do. This quick video demonstrates the proper way to breathe so you can modify your breathing and feel more energized.
2. A brisk walk is a great way to breathe properly. It makes your breathing rhythm deep and even, acting to soothe and invigorate the body and mind. Research is showing it to be our best daily brain medicine.
