When Breathing Exercises Don't Help

When Breathing Exercises Don’t Help

Why might this happen?

Breathing techniques aren’t universally calming. For some people, paying close attention to breathing increases awareness of sensations such as their heartbeat, chest tightness, dizziness or feeling unable to get enough air.

This can be particularly uncomfortable during panic or when someone already feels very focused on bodily sensations.

If an exercise makes you feel worse, you don’t need to push through it. Turning your attention outward to your surroundings, movement, sound, temperature or touch, may be more helpful.

The important bit:

Regulation isn’t about finding the technique you’re supposed to use. It’s about discovering what helps your individual nervous system feel safer and more settled.

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