Relaxation tips to Relieve Stress-Breathing Techniques

· Practice deep breathing at a regular time and in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed ü Good relaxation always starts with focusing on your breathing. The way to do it is to breathe in and out slowly and in a regular rhythm as this will help you to calm down ü Fill up the whole of your lungs with air, without forcing. Imagine you're filling up a bottle, so that your lungs fill from the bottom ü Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth ü Breathe in slowly and regularly counting from one to five (don’t worry if you can’t reach five at first), then let the breath escape slowly, counting from one to five ü Keep doing this until you feel calm. Breathe without pausing or holding your breath ü Practice this relaxed breathing for three to five minutes, two to three times a day (or whenever you feel stressed( http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stress-anxietdepression/Pages/ways-relieve-stress.aspx

From: Bupa