Summary written by Professor Bettina Meiser, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
Students can benefit from simple breathing and relaxation exercises, including diaphragmatic breathing, box breathing, a grounding technique called the 5-4-3-2-1 method, and progressive muscle relaxation.
Diaphragmatic Breathing
Diaphragmatic Breathing (4-6 cycles)
Diaphragmatic breathing calms the autonomic nervous system. Diaphragmatic (belly) breathing involves inhaling deeply through the nose, allowing the abdomen to expand while keeping the chest relatively still, and then exhaling slowly.
Diagram/Visualization of Steps
(Adapted from the University of Mississippi Medical Center)
- Starting Position: Lie on your back or sit comfortably. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen (just above the navel).
- Inspiration (Inhale): Inhale slowly through your nose. Focus on allowing your abdomen to expand outward (the hand on your belly should rise) while your chest remains still.
- Expiration (Exhale): Exhale slowly through your mouth (or nose) while tightening your abdominal muscles. Your belly will pull inward (the hand on your belly should fall).
BOX BREATHING
Box breathing also calms the autonomic nervous system. Box breathing, or square breathing, is a simple four-step stress reduction technique that involves equal 4-second counts for inhaling, holding the breath, exhaling, and holding the breath empty.
GROUNDING TECHNIQUE
A well-known grounding technique is the 5-4-3-2-1 method. This involves identifying 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. This exercise can quickly pull an individual out of an overwhelming or anxious state, or a flashback, and bring them back to the present moment.
PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION
This technique involves systematically tensing and then relaxing specific muscle groups, usually starting from the toes and moving up to the head. Progressive muscle relaxation can be practiced either sitting in a comfortable chair or lying down on a bed or mat, depending on your preference and location.




