Three slow breaths. The temperature of the world drops.
When you're irritated, focus on the long exhale, not the inhale.
I breathe out longer than I breathe in, and the world cools down
Everyone tells you to take a deep breath when you're upset. But the part that actually matters is the exhale, not the inhale.
If you only inhale, your lungs fill up and your body stays locked in tension mode. A long, slow exhale, on the other hand, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, and your body decides, "Okay, we're safe." This is one of the oldest reset techniques on earth, used in yoga and meditation for thousands of years, and it costs nothing.
Today, the next time you feel irritation flare or anxiety bubble up, try this. Inhale for four counts. Exhale for six. Three times. It takes less than thirty seconds. The temperature of your inner world drops by a real, noticeable amount.
Try this today
- Right now: inhale four counts, exhale six, three times
- Next time you're irritated, lead with the exhale
- Take five slow breaths in bed before closing your eyes
