Breath, body and rest
Gentle, everyday ways people come back to the body: slow breathing, movement, daylight and sleep routines.
Many people find that slow breathing with a longer out-breath, a short walk outside, or stretching between tasks helps them feel more settled. The NHS publishes simple breathing and relaxation exercises, and the UK Chief Medical Officers recommend being active every day in whatever way suits you.
Rest matters too: a regular wind-down, dimmer screens in the evening and a steady wake-up time are common, mainstream suggestions.
Safety first
- Stop any breathing exercise that makes you dizzy or uncomfortable; breathe normally.
- Fast or forceful breathing styles are not for everyone. Avoid them near water, while driving, or if you are pregnant or have a heart or lung condition, unless your doctor agrees.
Try a practice
Sources and further reading
- NHS: breathing exercises for stress (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: physical activity guidelines for adults (opens in a new tab)
Credit: General wellbeing information, in our own words, from public NHS and UK Chief Medical Officers’ guidance.