I guarantee you’ve never used this breathing exercise to help with your anxiety. 

Now, for me, I smoked a lot of pot early on in my anxiety journey to help with all of the really uncomfortable symptoms. Eventually, I was able to walk on my own. I didn’t need that crutch anymore. 

But I still really wanted to gravitate towards that sensation of smoking. I realized that smoking is a breathing practice, but also the touching of the lips triggers the parasympathetic nervous system that rest and digest mode that I’msafe and I can calm in ground mode. 

So let’s just do it without the actual smoke. 

You put your fingers to your lips, triggering that calming sensation, and take a big deep inhale filling your lungs. Pause at the top and then slowly exhale, feeling the tension release. 

Now, try it again.

Curious about the science behind breathing and anxiety relief?

Check out this research: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/benefits-of-breathing-exercises/

Keep reading or watch this Reel to learn this breathing exercise.

@happywoz

🌬️ Breathe out the stress! Let’s talk anxiety hacks! 🌪️ 🛡️ Bet you’ve never tried this breathing trick for those pesky anxiety moments! Let me spill the tea. ☕ True story: Back in the day, yours truly relied on a lot of…well, green to ease anxiety’s grip. 🌿 But guess what? I waved goodbye to that crutch and found a new path! 🚶‍♀️ So here’s the secret sauce: ever thought of smoking as a breathing exercise? 🚬 Yup, it’s not just about the puff, it’s the magical parasympathetic trigger! 🌟 👄 Fingers to lips! It’s like hitting the calm button. Inhale deep, feel those lungs puff like marshmallows. 🍥 Hold it, and exhale slow – bye-bye tension! 🎈 💨 So, let’s give it a shot, shall we? Trigger that calm, wave bye to anxiety, and take a deep inhale towards a brighter, chillier you! Drop a 🌬️ if you’re up for this awesome anxiety-busting hack. Let’s breathe it out! 🌈🌬️ BreatheOutStress CalmDownNow AnxietyHacks ChillModeOn OwnYourCalm

♬ original sound – Sandy Woznicki Stress Coach – Sandy Woznicki Stress Coach

The Power of the Unconventional:

Back in the day, I used to rely on a certain herbal remedy to help me deal with the distressing symptoms of anxiety. It did its job, but as I progressed on my journey towards managing anxiety, I knew I needed to let go of the crutch. Yet, that calming sensation of smoking lingered in my memory. It got me thinking – there’s more to it than just inhaling smoke. It’s about the act itself, the touch, and the subtle signal it sends to our nervous system.

The Unconventional Breathing Exercise:

Here’s where it gets interesting, and a bit quirky, I must say. This breathing exercise taps into the essence of that calming touch without the actual smoke. All you need are your trusty fingers. Place them lightly against your lips – that’s right, the very lips you’d touch while smoking. Now, let’s dive into the exercise.

  • The Inhale: As you press your fingers against your lips, take a deep and deliberate inhale. Feel the air filling your lungs, expanding your chest. Hold it for a brief moment at the top – relishing the fullness.

  • The Exhale: Slowly exhale, releasing any tension that might have tagged along. Picture the stress dissipating with every breath out.

Why It Works:

So, what’s the science behind this quirky trick? It’s a blend of touch and breath. When your fingers touch your lips, your body receives a signal that’s associated with safety and comfort. This triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, which is like hitting the brakes on anxiety. The intentional deep inhale and slow exhale further reinforce this calming response.

Trying It Out:

Give it a shot right now. Seriously, no judgment if you’re raising eyebrows at the screen while pressing your fingers to your lips. It might seem a tad odd, but remember, unconventional can often be surprisingly effective.

Incorporate It Into Your Routine:

The best part about this technique? It’s discreet and versatile. You can do it practically anywhere – during a stressful work meeting, before a nerve-wracking presentation, or even when you’re tucked into bed, battling the bedtime worries.

The bottom line:

So, there you have it – an anxiety hack that’s both out of the box and right under your nose. Embrace the unconventional. Sometimes, it’s the quirkiest methods that hold the key to unlocking a sense of calm. Give this finger-to-lips breathing exercise a whirl and see if it adds a touch of tranquility to your anxiety-fighting arsenal.

We’re all in this journey together. Stay calm, stay authentic, and keep discovering the unique ways to conquer anxiety one breath at a time.

Where to go from here:

  1. Work with me 1:1: For leaders and parents feeling lost trying to grow and heal on their own, ready for a guide on their journey out of anxiety into the happiest, most Zen-Badass version of yourself from the boardroom to the family room.
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