TACTICAL BREATH
Life is full of pressure and stress. Tactical Breathing is a small skill that can have a big impact. Learn to use it often.
Here’s Louise demonstrating the skill:
Helpful tips
Repeat the cycle at least three times
Repeat the cycle at least three times, and remember, take a big deep breath from the diaphragm. This technique works because it replicates how we breathe when we are calm and relaxed.
Count the 4-7-8 at your own pace. If you struggle to hold it for 7, don’t. Hold to the point where it feels natural.
Aim to exhale for longer than the inhale and breathe from your diaphragm.
Applying the skill
Here are some examples of when and how you can use Tactical Breath
- It’s the night before a big presentation, and you can’t sleep
- You are just about to walk into a big interview
- Rumination is keeping you awake at night
- A bad email has come into your inbox
- A meeting you’re in is going badly
- A client is very unhappy with you
- You have had a bad day and are on the way home
- Your child has just broken your favourite plant pot
- One of your children has an exam tomorrow and can’t sleep
- Someone you know is having a bad day
TODAY'S ACTION
Use the Tactical Breath skill to switch off your stress response and remain focused, productive and calm.