4-7-8 breathing technique

You may carry out the 4-7-8 breathing method by following these steps:

• Let your lips gently open.
• Completely let out your air, making a loud buzzing sound as you do so.
• For a count of four seconds, silently inhale through your nose while squeezing your lips together.
• Keep your breath held for seven counts.
• Repeat your previous exhalation for a full 8 seconds while whooshing.
• When you first begin, repeat four times. At some point, increase to 8 repetitions.

This method was created by Dr. Andrew Weil as a modification of pranayama, a traditional yoga practice that helps relaxation while replenishing the body's supply of oxygen.