Calm

I don't know about you, but with the holidays in full effect I am having an incredibly hard time focusing, staying calm and taking the time I need to stay sane. This is the time of year when the days are short but the work is longggg. We have what feels like an infinite number of deadlines and tasks to wrap up. The to do lists are literally littering the floor. This is the MOST important time of year to slow down, breathe and make sure you keep your body healthy. For the high stress New Yorkers out there, this is a really tempting time to up the intensity of workouts to relieve stress, but what if we just chilled out? Let's do a test:

Have a comfortable seat and (after you read this :)) close your eyes. Take a slow 4 count inhale into your belly and a slow 4 count exhale. Repeat 3 times. Now a slow 6 count inhale into the sides of your ribs and a slow 6 count exhale. Repeat 3 times. NOW take a slow 6 count inhale and try to expand the front and back of your ribs as well as the sides and then an 8 count exhale. Repeat 3 times.  Return your breath to normal.

Did you make it through? Did you get frustrated, give up or give in? Do you feel more clear headed? After doing this breathing exercise, you may have a more clear idea about what you need for your body. Taking the time to breath, and be still, can help your mind calm down, give you some perspective and just make you feel a whole lot better!