As you return to your workspace, you may find yourself experiencing increased stress. When stressed, you may not even be aware you are engaging in some level of “flight or flee” breathing which limits your ability to take a deep breath. In turn, shallow breathing can make stress a habit – and stress is the enemy of well-being and creativity.
One way to break the cycle is through mindful breathing. This quick exercise can be done in as little as five deep breaths.
First, bring to mind a moderate work challenge that is causing you stress.
Second, imagine being in the situation. As you do so, take another deep breath. Once your lungs are filled, take another tiny breath to fill your lungs even further. Exhale as slowly as you can.
Third, on your third deep breath, as you exhale, notice where you are feeling the stress in your body. Side note: dentists have observed that the pandemic is increasing teeth grinding due to jaw tightening. Or perhaps you are carrying tension in your shoulders.
Fourth, on this deep breath, label the emotion you are feeling with a curious, open attitude.
Fifth, on your last breath, put your hand on the place you are feeling the tension – perhaps your jaw or shoulder – and take the largest, slowest breath you can, releasing it slowly.
You will find that with practice, this type of mindful breathing will lead to awareness, stress reduction, and greater opportunities to experience “flow” or energized focus!
