When you're stressed, you tend to take shorter, shallower breaths, which don't supply as much oxygen to your body. This actually increases the amount of stress you experience. Because breathing is fundamentally linked to the way you feel mentally and physically, simply changing the way you breathe will enable you to handle stress better.

You probably can't remember the last time you sat quietly and simply focused on your breath — but with a little effort taking a breather can become a regular activity. Today, I want you to do a five-minute exercise that will allow you to become aware of your breath, slowing down your heart rate and reducing your stress level in the process.

It's simple: Close your eyes bringing your eyesight within. Listen within. Breathe through your nose and your skin. Adjust your breathing to be slow, smooth, deep and even. There should be no noise from your breathing. Just sit and be aware of your breathing. The breath will become soft and unbroken like silk.

How does paying attention to your breath change how you feel? How does it change your breathing? You may be surprised how relaxing this small step can be. Anytime you feel stressed or anxious going forward, do the five-minute breather to return your body to a state of calm. 

If you would like more than just five minutes, please come to one our classes at The Gentle Spirit's Center of Awareness. We have classes that range in length from 45 minutes for a quick lunchtime recharge to classes that last an hour and a half to all day workshops. Please visit our website www.xinleinstitute.com for more information on our class schedule.