National Domestic Violence Awareness Project

Creating Breathing Space

A Wellness Corner Blog Post By NRCDV’s Wellness Warriors

Each breath we take has a powerful influence on our well-being. The way we breathe impacts how we feel. When we feel stressed, we immediately increase the rate and reduce the depth of our breathing. Shallow breaths can cause unnecessary stress on the body. Taking time out each day to focus on our breath and practice deep breathing is an important gift to give your body for both emotional and physical health.

Here are some tips that will help you improve your breathing:
*Make sure to turn your phone on silent and shut your laptop for a few minutes while you take time to practice deep breathing.

1. Sit down comfortably.
2. Place one of your hands on your stomach, just below your ribcage. Place the second hand over your chest.
3. Breathe in deeply through your nostrils, letting your first hand be pushed out by your stomach. You should find that your chest stays stationary.
4. Breathe out through your lips, pursing them as if you were about to whistle. Gently guide the hand on your stomach inwards, helping to press out the breath.
5. Slowly repeat between 3 and 10 times.

To learn more about The Impact of Self-Care Practices at the Individual and Organization Level, visit Move to End Violence Building Movement for Social Change.

#WellnessCorner