Just breathe

It's not just about inhaling and exhaling; research shows breathwork has proven benefits for both our mental and physical well-being, and it can be a game-changer for your work performance too.

It's common for many of us to experience stress on Monday mornings, especially with the added pressure of meetings that can contribute to our already busy schedules (read more about meeting overload in today's Love Mondays More). And when stress comes knocking, our sympathetic nervous system (SNS) kicks into gear, causing that well-known fight, flight, or freeze response.

But there's a balancing act called the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), the calming sidekick to the SNS. When the PNS steps in, it's all about relaxation, stress reduction, and a sense of calmness.

So, how do we tap into this calming magic?

Studies have found that specific breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing or "belly breathing," activates the PNS, helping us shift from stress to calmness. Best of all, breathwork is customisable to our schedules – from a few seconds to a few minutes, every mindful breath counts.

So, take a moment now - inhale positivity, and exhale greatness - because you've got this.

The key is to find breathing practices that resonate with you. One valuable technique worth exploring is "box breathing," which even the U.S. Navy Seals swear by for its effectiveness. Give it a try and unlock the full potential of your breath!