2. STRESS SKILLS

(4) BREATHE DEEP 

Feeling stress? Take a deep breath and exhale slowly.  When you do this just 7 or 8 times, the deep breaths will calm your nerves and clear your mind.  Suddenly you are ready to perform your best!

Breathing deeply and slowly stimulates the brain’s relaxation response. Slowly breathe in on the count of one and then slowly exhale. Let your stomach muscles relax so your gut can comfortably extend while your lungs fill deeply with air. Slowly breathe in again on the count of two, then slowly exhale. The movement is slow and deliberate. Let your relaxed shoulders rise and fall with rhythmic breathing. If you feel light-headed, stop-but otherwise let the air clear the cobwebs and leaves you energized to meet the task!