The relaxing benefits of breathing exercises are well documented. Practiced regularly, this simple technique of 7/11 breathing can make all the difference in how you are feeling. It is particularly great if you suffer from sleep or anxiety issues, or if you’d just like a short-cut to feeling relaxed. As well as using it in the moment, try incorporating it into a daily practice for the maximum benefit.

This simple technique allows you to exhale more oxygen than you inhale, thus?counteracting?the over-breathing that occurs when we are stressed. It also slows your heart rate down and is deeply relaxing.

Step 1

Get comfortable and sit down if you can.

Step 2

Breathe in through your nose to a count of seven. Imagine the air is reaching all the way down to your diaphragm so your stomach gently pushes out with the breath.

Step 3

Breathe out through your mouth for a count of 11.

Repeat as many times as is necessary for you to feel better and enjoy the relaxed feeling that it brings.