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65 — Instant Calm: The One Minute Breathing Exercise to Reduce Stress and Anxiety

December 22, 2024

Breathing exercises that slow the breath down to 10 breaths per minute are effective in calming the nervous system. But many breathing exercises are complicated, and they’re tough to remember when you’re stressed out. This breathing exercise, however, is simple but effective. And I guarantee you’ll remember it.
 
The best news is you’ll start to feel the effects instantly. You can boost your mood, reduce your anxiety, and feel more alert in less than one minute.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

  1. Breathing exercises that slow the breath down to ten breaths per minute are effective in calming the nervous system.
  2. The “Smell the Pizza” exercise involves taking a deep breath in through the nose, holding it for a count of 3, and exhaling slowly through the mouth.
  3. Practicing the “Smell the Pizza” exercise can instantly help you feel calmer and reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger.

Quotes:

“Researchers have found that the benefits of breathing exercises include feelings of increased comfort, relaxation, pleasantness, vigor and alertness, and reduced symptoms of arousal, anxiety, depression, anger, and confusion.”

“Any technique of breath control that directly slows the breath down to ten breaths per minute is effective.”

“Smell the pizza. It sounds almost too easy to believe, though, right?”

“By practicing this exercise, you can experience increased comfort, relaxation, and reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger.”

Timestamp

0:00:00 Benefits of breathing exercises and their effectiveness.

0:02:00 Introduction to a simple breathing exercise called “Smell the Pizza”.

0:03:30 Any breathing exercise that slows the breath down to ten breaths per minute is effective.

0:05:00 Instructions on how to do the “Smell the Pizza” breathing exercise.

0:08:00 Explanation of how anxiety affects the body and the importance of interrupting the cycle.

0:10:00 Times when the “Smell the Pizza” exercise can be helpful.

0:11:30 Assignment to try the breathing exercise and use it preventatively.

0:12:00 Subscription information for more mental strength tips and access to bonus content.

0:12:30 Conclusion and thank you.

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