How one of the 'most powerful hacks' to control stress actually works
Box breathing is being highlighted as an effective technique for managing stress and anxiety, particularly for those struggling with sleep. Experts explain that the rhythmic, equal-part breathing pattern helps regulate the nervous system during high-pressure situations.
Why it matters
As mental health awareness grows, simple, accessible physiological tools are becoming increasingly important for public well-being.
Image source, @breathpod Image caption, Stuart Sandeman says breathwork originates from traditional practices like yoga
Powerless to help after catastrophic earthquakes struck her hometown of La Guaira in Venezuela two months ago, Maria Medina struggled to sleep.
She was more than 1,500 miles away in Florida, USA - where she has lived for the last 15 years - and was racked with worry for family and friends.
Box breathing helped her combat sleepless nights.
"In moments where I feel that there isn't much that I can do, like lying in bed at night and staring at the ceiling... I know it's going to help me," she says.
The 31-year-old first came across box breathing in 2020. She was studying for a master's degree while working full-time and the stress of doing both became too much once the Covid pandemic hit .
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in