A longer exhalation is thought to engage the parasympathetic (rest and digest) branch of the nervous system.

Lengthening the exhale is one of the most powerful and simple tools we have for reducing anxiety and stress (Tober, 2021).

This video will encourage you to first explore your breath as it is right now. This is then followed by gently guiding you through evening out your inhales and exhales. There is then an invitation to end up lengthening the exhale in a comfortable and safe way for you.

*Always listen to your body first. If the practise does not feel right for you today, let it go and perhaps simply return to notice your breath as it is , without needing to change it for a few minutes instead.