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Simple Breathing Techniques to Beat Holiday Stress

Anne

Nov 23, 2019

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The holidays are here, and as much as we wish they were, they’re not always filled with cheer. Holidays bring crazy travel schedules, visits from extended family members, kitchen blunders, mobs at the mall, and the whole shebang.

Sometimes you need to step outside and take a breath. We feel you. Maybe you need a minute to clear your mind, calm your thoughts, and be. Without the kids, without your in-laws, and without that green bean casserole that just got dropped on the floor.

That’s okay. Taking care of your mental health and well-being is important throughout the holiday season. We’ve put together some simple breathing techniques that you can use to overcome holiday stress.

Man in winter gear taking in a deep breathe to relieve holiday stress

Image by mavo / Shutterstock

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Step Outside and Breathe in Deep

The simplest technique of all is to step outside and take a deep breath. Doing this provides you with the opportunity to separate yourself from any external stress factors that are taking place around you. Is your house loud and packed with people? Step outside, where it's quiet and calm, and just breathe.

The process provides the mental break you need, and taking a deep breath helps relieve physical tension from your body. After a few minutes, you'll be ready to get back in there.

a small holiday note cards with the word

Image by Brigitte Tohm / Pexels

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Breath Focus to Banish Negativity

Another one of the simplest breathing techniques out there that can help beat holiday stress. The process of breath focus is straightforward, and anyone can do it, even if they've never tried a breathing technique before.

Simply breathe slowly and intentionally, focusing solely on that sensation. Imagine breathing in a sense of tranquility and exhaling negativity and stress. Repeat this technique for a few minutes at a time whenever you start to feel overwhelmed.

Woman closes her eyes and breaths away holiday stress

Image by Kosim Shukurov / Shutterstock

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Counted/Equal Breathing

Counted breathing can help beat holiday stress, and it's super simple. The process is exactly as it sounds. Take the time to count how long each breath takes, intentionally slowing down your breathing to promote relaxation.

Try inhaling as you count up to five, and then exhaling as you count back down to zero. Repeat this several times to help slow your thoughts and regain your bearings during a stressful situation.

Man leaning head back and yawning largely

Image by Ollyy / Shutterstock

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Lion's Breath

This stress beater is great because it consists of only one step. Simply breathe in through your nose as far as you can, filling your lungs and belly with air. Next, open your mouth as much as you can and force the entire breath out in one exhale. As you do this, imagine all the negativity and stress leaving your body.

You may want to step outside or into private for this one. You're likely to make a loud hissing or "Ahh" noise when you exhale so strongly.

Young girl in winter clothes holding warm coffee to help ease holiday stress

Image by Kristina Paukshtite / Pexels

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Visualization Breathing

Visualization and breathing? You said these would be simple! It is. Bring yourself to a bright blue beach in the tropics, or a mountain top surrounded by forests, no matter where you are. Simply envision the scene in your mind whenever a stressful thought comes around and breathe deeply while focusing on that vision.

It won't even matter what's going on around you since you'll be on vacation in your mind.

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Anne

GR8NESS Writer

Anne is a GR8NESS Contributing Writer, covering mental health, self-development, body, health, and pet care. She believes that self-betterment comes from addressing all aspects of the mind, body, and soul. When she’s not writing, you will definitely find her giving her dog belly rubs and reading the first half of every book she buys.

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