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Breathe2Relax (click the blue link to see the site)
Cost: Free (iOS/Android)
This app is a “portable stress management tool” that teaches you diaphragmatic breathing, a technique that’s been taught for centuries as a way of reducing stress and decreasing the body’s fight or flight response. Choose the breathing cycle that’s right for you, and the app makes it easy to practice. As you develop your skills, you can begin to “belly breathe” as you walk, drive, watch TV, attend meetings and perform other everyday activities.
Breathe2Relax is a portable stress management tool. Breathe2Relax is a hands-on diaphragmatic breathing exercise. Breathing exercises have been documented to decrease the body's 'fight-or-flight' (stress) response, and help with mood stabilization, anger control, and anxiety management.Breathe2Relax can be used as a stand-alone stress reduction tool, or can be used in tandem with clinical care directed by a healthcare worker.
Capitalizing on touch-screen technology, a user can record their stress level on a 'visual analogue scale' by simply swiping a small bar to the left or to the right. Breathe2Relax uses state-of-the-art graphics, animation, narration, and videos to deliver a sophisticated, immersive experience for the user.
What is the purpose of Breathe2Relax?
Breathe2Relax was developed to teach a skill called diaphragmatic breathing, sometimes called "belly breathing". This kind of breathing has been taught for centuries as a way of turning on the body's relaxation response. This app, using smart phone technology, allows you to learn and practice this skill on your own or as part of a stress management program supervised by your healthcare professional. The app also provides detailed information on the effects of stress on the body which you should become familiar with.
Can I use diaphragmatic breathing to help during very stressful situations?
Yes, it can be useful during highly stressful situations, but it's important to understand that it is not an immediate antidote to high stress. Diaphragmatic breathing will not immediately slow a racing heart or filter adrenaline from you system. Many people make the mistake of trying to use the skill only during times of high stress, and when they don't feel immediately better, they conclude that it doesn't help. Like any stress management skill, diaphragmatic breathing requires practice and regular use.
Am I supposed to close my eyes (I feel more relaxed that way)?
During the initial learning process it's best to keep your eyes open so you can watch your stomach as you practice breathing from your diaphragm. You'll want to see your belly rise and your chest stay motionless as you breathe. After you're confident that you have mastered the skill, you can certainly close your eyes if it helps you to relax. Remember though, that the best results will occur when you develop the habit of belly breathing as you go through everyday life, walking, driving, watching TV, etc.
How often should I practice?
Practice as often as you can. One of the advantages of having this information on a smart phone is that your practice opportunities are available anytime you have your phone with you.
Can I use headphones?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable. The audio instructions are important as you begin to practice this skill and you should make use of them whenever possible.
Do I have to practice lying down? What if I want to use this out in public?
Practicing while you are lying down isn't necessary to learn this skill. If, in the beginning, you have any difficulty breathing from your belly however, lying down with a book on your stomach so you can watch it rise and fall as you breathe, can be a great help to make sure you are practicing the skill correctly. As you get more comfortable with the skill, practice it whenever and wherever you can. The goal is to make this your natural way of breathing.
How can I slow down/speed up the pace of the breathing exercises?
In the Practice area of the app you can use the Shorten or Lengthen buttons to change the pace of the breathing exercise to match a pace that is comfortable for you. You can also set a pace for inhaling and exhaling by going to Settings > Cycle Settings and following the instructions for using your natural breathing cycle as the basis of the practice settings. You can also change the number of practice cycles in the Practice exercise from the default setting of 16 cycles.
Are there any cautions I should be aware of regarding diaphragmatic breathing?
For persons with lung problems or those who simply have a weak diaphragm, this exercise might be tiring at first. Be sure not to overly strain or injure yourself and stop if you begin to feel discomfort. If you have serious pulmonary issues, consult a doctor before attempting diaphragmatic breathing.
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