Sometimes, all it takes is one thing to make a difference in your day.

Many times, that one thing can be closer to you than you think -- as close to you as your very breath.

Your breath is inextricably linked with your emotional state. When you manage your breath, you're better able to manage your emotional state.

Not All Breathing Techniques Are Created Equal

Some breathing techniques are long and drawn out.

Some leave you quite breathless.

Some have very specific counts that are too soon forgotten after you do the technique.

A Breathing Technique that Has Stood the Test of Time

There's a breathing technique, in particular, that has stood the test of time. I like to call it The Instant Om Breath because you are likely to experience a calming sensation when doing it.

As always, go at your own pace whenever you do any breathing technique. If you're new to breath work, start slowly, breathing to a lower count.

Over time, you may lengthen the count of your breath. If, at any time you feel nauseated or dizzy, immediately resume your normal breathing. 

The Instant Om Breath

The Instant Om Breath helps to calm your mind and body quickly when you're feeling anxious or stressed.

To do it is simple.

Choose a count that's comfortable for you. You may want to experiment. If you're not used to doing breathing techniques, doing this breath to the count of 3 or 4 will be enough to anxious thoughts. 

Most people feel comfortable doing this breath to the count of 5. Again, honor your unique level of breathing comfort.

To Do The Instant Om Breath:

• Inhale through your nose to the count of 5.
• Hold your breath for the count of 5.
• Exhale through your nose to the count of 5.
• Repeat for 5 rounds.

After doing several rounds of the Instant Om Breath, simply allow yourself to be.

If you have the chance to sit in stillness for a few minutes, this will allow you to fully integrate a calm breath with a calm mental state.

The peacefulness the Instant Om Breath provides will allow you to remerge and engage with your day feeling more grounded.

How the Instant Om Breath Supports You

The Instant Om Breath is a versatile breathing technique that you can do almost anytime, anywhere (except, of course, when operating machinery, a vehicle, or anything requiring your full focus).

When to Do the Instant Om Breath:

• as a peaceful start to your day
• as a mid-afternoon boost of energy
• to ease physical pain
• to calm restless thoughts
• to release anxiety
• to focus your mind
• to let go of distractions
• at night to sleep better

For best results, select a time or two to practice the Instant Om Breath. When you do it consistently, you may find that it becomes a natural part of your day. You may even begin to feel like something is missing from your day when you don't do it.

Most importantly, during your times of greatest need, the Instant Om Breath may become that one thing that grounds you.

Be Guided in a Meditation Using a Breathing Technique

Every Tuesday on The Daily Meditation Podcast you're guided in a 10-minute episode using a breathing technique that is customized around the weekly theme. Or, for a deeper, in-depth guided visualization experience, enjoy Day 1 of every week's new themed meditation series on the Sip and Om meditation app. Try it free for a week!