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Banish acute stress and anxiety with this simple exercise with Jackie Prutsman

Whenever I feel the range of emotions that take me to the “dark place” (stress, sadness, anger, resentment) I try my best to shift my focus to breathing and gratitude.
Jackie Prutsman

Jackie Prutsman

2 Min Read

breathing to relieve stress, anxiety relief

I’ve actually gotten pretty good at this practice.

That’s because breathing and intentional gratitude is the only thing I’ve found that, without fail, will bring me quickly to a positive and peaceful place.

A place where I can breathe and I’m not overwhelmed by stress and negativity.

It’s my acute fix, and I’m telling you…it works.

I share this not because I’ve become this guru of calm who can zen master my way through the shit sandwich we’re collectively dealing with as a species right now (I know, I know – tell ya how I really feel).

I share this because I’m fairly certain that a year ago I’d be resenting and stressing my way into the hospital about now. And I’m not.

Simple and intentional stress release practices really do work.

Next time stress, anger, or overwhelm hits you, I encourage you to try something like this:

  • Close your eyes.
  • Start by taking in a 4 count breathe through your nose, hold for 2, let out through your mouth for 8.
  • Repeat this twice. In for 4, hold for 2, out for 8.
    In for 4, hold for 2, out for 8.
  • Allow your breath to naturally rise and fall for about 30 seconds.
  • Now, say out loud 3 things you’re grateful for in your life today.
  • Now one thing you’re looking forward to or excited about.
  • Breath in, and out, feel the rise and fall of your breath.
  • When you’re ready, take two more deep breaths in, and all the way out.
  • Open your eyes

Fun Fact: Research suggests that it takes a mere 90 seconds for humans to shift away from anger or negative emotion.

90 intentional seconds of breathing and directed thinking, pointed at the positive.

I’ve tried this you guys (Well, okay, I’ve used it daily for 3 weeks now).

The point is, it works.

It works every single time, without fail.

And since we all need a little light, love and help relieving the pressure of our reality right now – I wanted to share this with you today.

Breathe.
Gratitude.
Breathe.
Release.
Rinse and repeat as often as you need.

And remember: Whatever you are currently feeling is valid. Whatever you are currently capable of is enough.

Love and light, my friends.

xo
Jackie