Belly Breathing:The Simple Stress Reset You Can Do Anywhere

I often joke that I speak way too fast — and way too loudly — to teach meditation. So when I tell a group we’re about to practice belly breathing, I can sense the confusion.

That’s when I warn them:
This is the only time we’re going to get a little “woo woo.” Stick with me. Trust me.

Why do I love teaching belly breathing?
Because it’s one of the simplest, most accessible techniques out there. Almost anyone can do it, anywhere, anytime — and it works.

Why Belly Breathing Matters

We are actually born knowing how to breathe this way.
Think back to when you brought your newborn home. You probably spent hours just watching their tiny belly rise and fall with each breath.

Or picture your dog stretched out in the sun, totally relaxed. Watch closely — they’re breathing through their belly too.

There’s good science behind this: when we belly breathe, we send a signal to the brain that says, You’re safe.
No lions. No tigers. No bears.
No looming threat.

This calms the nervous system, reduces stress hormones, and helps ground us back in the present moment.

Today’s Challenge

Here’s my invitation to you today:
The next time you hang up the phone, close out a Zoom meeting, or catch yourself about to angrily fire off a reply-all email… pause and breathe.

Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly.
Take a slow breath in, and feel your belly move — not your chest.
Then exhale slowly.

Even just a few breaths can reset your mood, calm your mind, and help you respond (instead of react) to whatever’s in front of you.