Breathing techniques
Breathing techniques can help develop resilience and help you cope when you are feeling stressed
Focusing on your breath can be very grounding. Dr Gemima Fitzgerald, Clinical Psychologist, Dementia Carers Count
Why deep breathing matters
Breathing techniques can be extremely helpful. At times of stress, the body focuses on increasing the blood supply, and therefore oxygen, to our extremities. This allows us to react to the situation which is making us feel stressed – perhaps making us want to fight it or run away (flight).
However, if we can optimise the blood, and therefore oxygen to the brain, this can help re-oxygenate the brain, enabling better decision-making.
Guided ‘Ha’ breathing
This is a breathing exercise where you breathe out for twice as long as you breathe in. Any extended out breath will automatically slow the heart rate down. This helps you relax and calm down.
If you get anxious or your thoughts are running away with themselves, this technique can help you to regain your composure.
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