Evening 4-7-8 Breathing Practice: Reset, Restore, And Unwind

Tonight we'll begin with a simple yet powerful tool called the 4-7-8 breathing technique.

This technique activates your parasympathetic nervous system,

Promoting relaxation and helping you transition from the busyness of the day into a peaceful night's rest.

To begin,

I invite you to find a comfortable position,

Either sitting or lying down,

Close your eyes gently and take a moment to settle into your space.

Let your body begin to relax as you bring your attention to your breath.

The 4-7-8 breath is simple yet powerful.

It works by regulating the breath,

Which in turn calms the nervous system.

We will inhale collectively through our nose for a count of 4,

We will hold our breath for a count of 7,

And we will exhale out our mouth slow and steady for a count of 8.

If at any time it becomes uncomfortable for you,

I invite you to find a cadence that works well for you.

We will do 2 rounds together and then I will give you time to practice by counting in your own mind,

Really starting to initiate this practice and build ownership over it.

Let's go ahead and begin our breathing practice together.

Inhaling deeply through the nose for a count of 1,

2,

3,

4,

Holding the breath for 1,

2,

3,

4,

5,

6,

7,

Exhaling out the mouth for 1,

2,

3,

4,

5,

6,

7,

8,

Inhaling through the nose for 1,

2,

3,

4,

5,

6,

7,

And breathing out through the mouth for 1,

2,

3,

4,

5,

6,

7,

8.

Beginning counting on your own within your mind,

Remembering to breathe in for 4,

Hold for 7,

Exhale for 8.

Beginning now.

I invite you to finish your last round,

Gently bringing yourself back to a natural breathing pattern.

Noticing perhaps if your body feels calm,

Relaxed,

And ready for rest.

As we conclude today's practice,

I invite you to remember this simple tool that is always available to you.

The 4-7-8 breathing practice that is here to help you bring a sense of peace and quiet to your body and mind.