People often share with me, “I feel I have no control over my life.” When we feel powerless or like everything is out of your hands, it helps to identify what we do have control over. One of the most fundamental areas of our life we have control in is our breath. Intentionally controlling our breathing is one of the simplest and quickest ways to regain power in your life.
Conscious breathing brings us back to the present moment. It aligns the body and mind in a way that is in harmony to your intentions. I’ve often heard quote, “If the mind is a kite, then breath is the string."
Try it now. Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds, exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds, and hold your exhale for 4 seconds. Then repeat.
That’s called box breathing. It is practiced by firefighters, emergency responders, and other folks in high stress jobs. It’s also practiced by bad asses like Brene Brown. It is one of many techniques known as the science of breath.
There is no greater power than self-control. In that journey, mastering your breath is your greatest companion. Next time you are feeling anxious or tense, or if you are feeling a general sense that everything is out of your hands, start here, with breathing.
