A 2-minute breathing exercise that any stressed-out working person can do to de-stress
The benefits of breathing for calming the body, sharpening the mind and awakening the senses are undeniable, but how does it work in practice? For some, disconnecting from reality and indulging in relaxation sounds confusing, even frightening and difficult. For others, it is impossible to set aside time for meditation, and the idea of it in the office is a lot for them. There are also people who do not succeed in diving into themselves, no matter how many times they try.
What should a stressed-out employee do in the middle of a stressful workday? It turns out that it only takes 2 minutes to feel the benefits of the following two-part exercise – everyone will admit that it’s easy to do! Set the timer for 2 minutes, close your eyes and…
…Dedicate the first minute to breathing to increase energy
Breathe in through your nose for a count of four and exhale for a count of three mentally. Repeat 2-3 times. Inhalation stimulates the sympathetic nervous system and promotes relaxation and activity.
Tip: Do this exercise before a work meeting or conversation that you suspect will be exhausting.
…The second minute of breathing is for calming down – you will act in the reverse scheme
Inhale to the count of three and exhale to the count of four. This will activate the parasympathetic nervous system and calm you down in no time.
Tip: After a stressful call or exchange of unpleasant phrases with an angry colleague, this exercise is truly invaluable.
Try it – in stressful circumstances, during energy drops, as a short break from everything done so far, inhale, exhale and you will see how the work will continue better than before.
We at ATRIUM have already tested the technique – among the fresh greenery of our urban oasis, where we enjoy over 200 wonderful green plants. Breathe in, breathe out!
