Control your breath
Breathing exercises are a quick way to relax, reduce tension, and relieve stress. Breathing exercises can be used throughout your day, or before a big game or competition. Try some guided breathing from Mindful NYU or use one of these other methods on your own.
Guided Breathing
Drama. Distraction. Angst. Burnout. Fatigue. Whatever you call it, many of us struggle with stress, especially during the busiest times of the academic year. In this one-minute meditation, Melissa Carter, Head of Mindfulness Education and Innovation for NYU Global Spiritual Life, invites you to slow down, check in, and take care. It starts with a simple breathing exercise.
Self Guided Breathing
Belly Breathing
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly
Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four making sure your belly abdomen is expanding and not your chest. Exhale for a count of four.
Continue this breathing cycle for 2-3 minutes
4-7-8 Breathing
Roll Breathing
Take a slow deep breath in through your nose and raise your shoulders towards your ears
Breathe slowly out through your mouth and lower your shoulders as you exhale
Repeat slowly, rolling your shoulders up and down in time with your breath
Continue for 2-3 minutes