Day 11: Keep Breathing!

It’s no secret that stress can take a toll on the body. Our busy lifestyles can contribute to the build-up of stress over time—even for the most laid-back personalities. We are constantly on the go, adding more activities to our daily routine in an effort to provide for ourselves and our families.

This is especially true during the holiday season when we begin to be consumed with gift-giving, Christmas parties, and planning for the in-laws’ arrival.

Very rarely do we take time out for ourselves to relax and let go, which is why I’m encouraging everyone to do exactly that during Day 11 of our 12 Days of Christmas celebration!

Day 11 Challenge: Keep breathing…

To calm yourself in a stressful holiday moment or to help yourself fall asleep, follow this breathing technique. You’re sure to feel refreshed, relaxed, and calm.

Breathing Technique to Relieve Stress

1. Sit comfortably in an upright position. Both feet should be flat on the floor.
2. 2. Place one hand on your chest and the other hand on your abdomen. (When you take a deep breath in, the hand on your abdomen should raise higher than the hand on your chest. This allows for deep abdominal breathing and oxygen saturation to be delivered from head to toe.)
3. After exhaling fully through the mouth take a 5-count deep breath in through your nose. Hold this breath for 5 more counts, and then slowly exhale fully through the nose for 5 counts.
4. After you’ve completely exhaled, contract your abdomen to expel any reserves. Relax for a few moments, and repeat the cycle 5-10 times through
5. To allow for a deeper relaxation, close your eyes and turn off any lights, noises or electronics!

This exercise has never failed to help me fall asleep and sleep more deeply through the night. It’s a great way to unwind after a long, hard day’s work! Go ahead and try it before you go to bed tonight, and let us know in the comments how well it works out for you… (tomorrow, after you wake up, of course.)

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