Deep Breathing (Smoking Cessation)
Deep breathing is a very useful tool to quit smoking. You can use deep breathing as a coping skill. Here are some of the benefits:
- helps cravings pass
- promotes relaxation
- relieves feelings of tension, anxiety, and nervousness
- increases oxygen and blood flow to the brain
- improves memory, alertness, problem solving, and decision-making skills
Learning the technique
The 5 steps below teach you how to practice Traditional deep breathing:
- Take a slow, deep breath through your nose. Breathe in for 3 seconds. Feel your abdomen (belly) expand as you inhale.
- Hold the breath for 3 seconds.
- Pucker your lips, and exhale through your mouth. Breathe out slowly and evenly for 6 seconds. Feel your abdomen (belly) move inward.
- Repeat the first three steps 3 to 5 times to experience the calming effect of deep breathing.
- Practice often so you can use deep breathing effectively.
