Accessing the breath

Over the last 30 days, I've been coaching leaders and helping people navigate transitions.

For many of us, when faced with uncertainty, familiar and unwanted responses arise.

"I feel stuck"

"I'm experiencing anxiety and it's getting in the way"

"I know what I don't want any more, but I'm not sure how to create what I really do want"

When facing challenges, when feeling stuck, when we are uncertain, our bodies are the first to respond, along with our emotions. That's a good thing – it keeps us alive. But when it comes to showing up at work, or even to a video call, we want our bodies to support us.

An exercise to access the breath

Here's a really simple breathing exercise I often use coaching clients. You can do it now, just as you read this.

Take a breath. Just one, deep breath.

Once your lungs are full, pause for a moment.

Breathe out.

Feels good? Do it again, only this time breathe in a little deeper. Notice what moves as you breathe in – maybe your shoulders, your neck, your hips...

Breathe in...

Pause for just a little longer.

Breathe out.

If this feels good, take a moment to notice the difference in your body, your chest, your connection to the ground.

And then take one more deep breath in, pause, and exhale.

The wisdom of the breath

If you just did that exercise, you just took three breaths. Less than a minute.

You can reset, find focus, let go of tension – all with the breath. You don't have to be an expert in yoga or meditation to notice your breath.

All it takes is a moment to notice. Shift your attention to the breath and see what changes.

If you're interested to learn how a free coaching session can help you better lead and navigate a transition, book in here.