“Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts. Whenever your mind becomes scattered, use your breath as the means to take hold of your mind”
Thich Nhat Hanh
Everything begins with the breath, mastering the breath helps to master life.
Being mindful of your breathing and practising healthy breathing habits supports both your mental and physical wellbeing.
When an individual is stressed or anxious their breathing becomes shallow.
Here is a breathing activity, to engage your mind and breath in when you are feeling anxious.
Directions for Take 5 Breathing Activity
Begin with palm open, fingers outstretched, take a deep breath in to the count of five. On count one curl the thumb into centre of the palm, two curl index fingers, continue curling each remaining finger, one at a time for each count 3, 4 5.
Your hand is now in a close fist, squeeze, hold breath comfortably for a moment, then breath out slowly to a count of 5, uncurling each finger to outstretched position at each count, starting with your little finger. count 1, and working your way round to your thumb, 2, 3, 4, 5, ending with an open palm,
Repeat Take 5 Breathing exercise for five rounds or for as many rounds as you require to assist in the reduction of feeling anxiety.