Take a Deep Breath

Connect with someone who will listen and help 24/7.

In danger or need immediate medical attention? Call 911 Now.

Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress.

That is because breathing deeply tells your brain to calm down and relax. The brain then sends this message to your body. The things that happen when you are stressed, such as a fast heart rate, fast breathing, and high blood pressure, all decrease as you breathe deeply to relax.

  1. Close your eyes.
  2. Breathe in and feel your stomach muscles relax.
  3. Hold it for a moment.
  4. Purse your lips, and breathe out slowly as if you are slowly blowing out candles on a birthday cake. Feel your stomach muscles tighten as you empty your breath.
  5. Repeat, SLOWLY, 2 times or more as needed.