Practise mindfully rather than breathing harder
Here, breathing practice means finding a calm, comfortable rhythm. You do not need to breathe particularly deeply or hold your breath for a long time. We adjust the exercise so that it feels effortless.
With or without measurements
HRV feedback can show how the intervals between heartbeats change as you breathe. You can also practise without a device: a few calm breaths, relaxed shoulders and a comfortable pace. We only extend the practice time once this feels comfortable.
What an exercise can do
Slow breathing is being studied in relation to autonomic regulation. It may be a useful part of stress regulation. It replaces neither treatment for respiratory disease nor assessment of breathlessness. If you feel dizzy, short of breath or unwell, stop and breathe normally.
