What is Box Breathing?

Breathe in, hold, breathe out, hold. Repeat. You may be familiar with this methodology used by yogis and Navy SEALs to help calm down and remain in control. But do you know where it came from?

Box breathing originated in India, although it may not have started with that name. “Pranayama” is the practice of focused breathing found in yoga. It sits under the umbrella of Ayurvedic Medicine, an ancient Indian medical system. Holistic in nature, Ayurvedic Medicine focuses on a connected approach to mental and physical health. This approach makes a lot of sense, especially when you consider what we know about the mind-body connection.

I couldn’t find information on when the Navy SEALs started implementing box breathing as part of their routine, but they are certainly a cause of box breathing’s rise in popularity in North America.

First, find a place and a position where you can breathe and relax. Environment is a key factor in relaxation, regardless of which techniques you employ.

1. Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds
2. Hold your breath for 4 seconds
3. Exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds
4. Hold for 4 seconds before inhaling again
5. Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds and continue the cycle

Check out this box breathing video to see what you can expect to find in StressBuddy