Challenge Tips

Did you know that deep breathing can stop your body’s natural stress response in its tracks? 

It doesn’t require equipment or take up space, and you can do it anywhere. If you proactively learn and practice deep breathing techniques when you aren’t stressed, you can rely on them when you are stressed. 

For your first mini vacation today, practice a deep breathing technique for 3 to 5 minutes. Diaphragmatic (belly) breathing is a popular method, and it's at the heart of most deep breathing techniques. Research also shows that diaphragmatic breathing significantly lowers your cortisol levels — the primary stress hormone. Give it a try: 

1. Sit in a chair or lie down, keeping your neck and shoulders relaxed. 
2. Place your hand on your stomach. 
3. Breathe in through your nose, noticing your belly rise as it fills with air. 
4. Exhale through your mouth for twice as long as you inhaled. 

For more inspiration, see how #healthynurse Ashley Johnson, MSN, AGPCNP-C, DNP(c), uses aromatherapy, meditation, and deep breathing to improve her job satisfaction. 

Find this helpful? Use the social media links on the left side of your page to share this with a nurse and invite them to join Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation! 

Tell us how it goes today here or reply on Twitter, in our private Facebook group or Instagram. Remember to tag us with #healthynurse!

Do more! Join us on day 2.