The 4-7-8 breathing method activates yourparasympathetic nervous system, AKA the system responsible for relaxation.

This calms down the sympathetic nervous system that’s responsible for the opposite response: the stress/fight-or-flight response.

For more videos, check out ourmeditation library.

Woman meditating against a cloudy sky backdrop

Verywell Mind / Getty Images

2017;38(3):451-458. doi:10.1007/s10072-016-2790-8

Close up of a young woman meditating at home

Sporty beautiful smiling young woman relaxing

deep breathing