If you are feeling stressed, overly anxious or just plain tense; this simple technique will work wonders. You can get rid of that horrid, tense feeling by simply focusing on your breath. Those short, shallow gulps of air we take when stressed only adds to those feelings of tension, making us feel even more edgier and maybe even a little lightheaded!
STOP - Close your eyes and focus on the way you are breathing right now. As soon as you pay attention to your breath you can change the way you feel in this present moment. Refocusing your breathing pattern by shifting to deep breathing will soothe your nerves, send oxygen to your brain and refresh your mind.
INHALE - Inhale slowly through your nose to the count of eight. Don't push yourself, whatever you do don't strain just take the inhalation as near to the count of eight as possible (don't worry it will come in time!). Fill your lovely tummy with the air (not your chest).
EXHALE - Exhale through your mouth to the count of ten. Again don't push yourself, just take the exhalation as near to the count of ten as possible.
REPEAT - Repeat the whole process around 5-10 times until you feel calm and refreshed (and trust me, you will!).