Podcast Episode Details
Back to Podcast Episodes
Stress-Dissolving Breaths: A Sanctuary of Calm in Chaotic Times
Hi there, and welcome to Daily Mindfulness. I'm so glad you've carved out these few precious moments for yourself today. If you're feeling the weight of accumulated stress, the constant buzz of digital overwhelm, or just that sense of being stretched too thin, you're not alone. Right now, in this moment, we're going to create a small sanctuary of calm.
Find a comfortable position - whether you're sitting, standing, or lying down. Let your body settle, like a leaf gently coming to rest on still water. Close your eyes if that feels comfortable, or soften your gaze just a few feet in front of you.
Take a deep breath in through your nose, feeling your chest and belly expand. Then exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension you've been holding. Imagine each breath as a wave washing away the residue of stress, smoothing out the rough edges of your day.
Let's explore a practice I call the "Stress Dissolving Breath." Picture your stress as a tightly wound ball of string. With each breath, you'll begin to loosen and unravel these tangled threads. Breathe in deeply, noticing the cool air entering your nostrils. As you exhale, imagine a warm, soft light spreading through your body, gently separating and releasing each knot of tension.
Breathe in for a count of four: one, two, three, four. Hold for a moment. Then exhale for a count of six: one, two, three, four, five, six. Feel how this longer exhale naturally calms your nervous system. The out-breath is like a signal to your body that you're safe, that you can let go.
Continue this breathing, allowing thoughts to pass like clouds across the sky. You don't need to chase them or hold onto them. Just observe. Each time your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to the rhythm of your breath. No judgment, just compassionate awareness.
As we complete our practice, take one final deep breath. Set an intention to carry this sense of spaciousness with you. Maybe it's a gentle reminder to pause and breathe when stress starts to build. Perhaps it's a commitment to be kind to yourself throughout the day.
Thank you for showing up for yourself today. If this practice resonated with you, please subscribe to Daily Mindfulness. We'll be here, ready to support you in finding moments of peace amid life's chaos. Until next time, breathe easy.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
Published on 7 months, 2 weeks ago