4-7-8 Breathing: How To Do It, How It Works, And More
Feeling overwhelmed and struggling to unwind? It seems like stress is constantly lurking around the corner, ready to pounce. Just when you think you’ve escaped its clutches, it creeps back in, leaving you feeling anxious, agitated, and frazzled.
But what if there was a simple, quick, and effective way to combat stress and find relaxation?
Enter the 4-7-8 breathing technique, a powerful relaxation tool with ancient roots and touted as a natural tranquilizer.
It can help you fall asleep faster, reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and offer other health benefits. Interested? Keep reading to discover the wonders of this breathing pattern and how to incorporate it into your daily routine.
What is 4-7-8 Breathing?
This breath regulation technique involves three phases of deep and slow breathing.
It’s designed to promote relaxation, decrease anxiety, and improve concentration. Its name refers to the mental count you’ll use for each phase of the exercise:
Inhale quietly for a count of four
Hold your breath for seven counts
Exhale completely, making a whoosh sound, for eight counts
The Science of the 4-7-8 Method
The 4-7-8 deep breathing exercise has its roots in yogic practice and is closely related to diaphragmatic breathing and other relaxation techniques.
It’s believed to work by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for promoting relaxation and counteracting the effects of the sympathetic nervous system – the one that triggers the body’s stress response.
By practicing deep and slow breathing, you can help your body activate the relaxation response, which reduces the stress response and brings about a more relaxed state.
Peer-reviewed studies have shown that slow breathing can lead to lower heart rate, reduced blood pressure, and a decrease in negative affect.
In addition, supporters of the relaxing breath technique say it can offer more benefits, like better sleep, less stress, and better emotional self-regulation.
How to Practice 4-7-8 Breathing: A Step-by-Step Guide
You can practice this technique in any position, but it’s recommended to sit up with your back straight to maintain good posture. If you’re using this breath control practice to help you fall asleep, you can even do it while lying in bed.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Position your tongue
Keep your tongue towards the roof of your mouth throughout the exercise, with the tip touching the back of your two front teeth.
Step 2: Exhale deeply
Start with a deep exhale through your lips, making a whooshing sound. This prepares you for the counting process.
Step 3: Inhale and count to four
Breathe in through your nose, mentally counting up to four. Choose a comfortable pace that works for you, not too slow or too fast.
Step 4: Hold and count to seven
Gently hold your breath without straining, and count to seven in your mind.
Step 5: Exhale and count to eight
Slowly exhale for eight counts, with your lips slightly pursed around your tongue. You should hear the whooshing sound again. Congratulations! You’ve completed one cycle of 4-7-8 breathing.
Step 6: Repeat the process
Follow steps three to five for three more cycles: inhale through your nose for four counts, hold your breath for seven counts, and exhale through your mouth for eight counts.
When you first start practicing the 4-7-8 breathing method, you might feel a bit lightheaded or short of breath.
This is simply because you’re not used to focusing on your breathing and breathing more slowly.
With a little practice, your body will adjust, and you’ll become more comfortable with the technique.
How Long Does it Take for 4-7-8 Breathing to Work?
The effectiveness of the 4-7-8 breathing technique varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience immediate relaxation, while others may require more practice to fully reap its benefits.
It’s generally recommended to practice this breathing exercise daily for optimal results as it works best as a preventative measure.
As you become more comfortable with the breathing pattern, you can gradually increase the number of breath cycles per session, up to a maximum of eight cycles.
Consistency and patience are key when it comes to mastering this powerful relaxation tool.
Is 4-7-8 Breathing Harmful?
When practiced correctly and mindfully, breathing techniques are generally safe and beneficial for healthy adults.
However, it’s essential to listen to your body and stop the practice if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or experience any discomfort.
It’s also a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or integrative medicine specialist if you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns before starting any new breathing exercises.
Other Relaxation Breathing Techniques
While the 4-7-8 breathing technique is an excellent tool for promoting relaxation, it’s not the only relaxation method available. Consider incorporating other techniques, such as:
1. Diaphragmatic breathing
Also known as “belly breathing,” diaphragmatic breathing involves inhaling deeply through the nose, allowing your diaphragm to expand and your belly to rise, and then exhaling through the mouth.
2. Progressive muscle relaxation
This technique involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in a systematic manner to release tension and promote relaxation.
3. Guided imagery
This involves visualizing peaceful and calming scenes, such as a beach or a forest, to help your mind and body relax.
4. Mindfulness meditation
This practice involves focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment, helping to calm the mind and reduce stress. You can read more about mindfulness meditation here.
By combining 4-7-8 breathing with other breathing exercises, you can create a powerful stress-relief toolkit tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
If you’re interested in learning more about other breathing methods you might like to read: 8 Amazing Breathing Exercises You Need To Try Right Now!
The Takeaway
The 4-7-8 breathing technique is a simple and effective method for promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving concentration.
With its ancient roots in yoga and evidence-based benefits, it’s a valuable addition to your self-care routine.
By practicing regularly and complementing it with other relaxation techniques, you can take control of your stress levels and cultivate a more relaxed and balanced state of mind.
So, the next time you’re feeling stressed or having trouble falling asleep, give the 4-7-8 breathing technique a try – you just might find it’s the secret weapon you’ve been searching for to combat stress and achieve deep relaxation.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of any mental health condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
