Have you ever completed a really big project, or had a difficult conversation with someone you care about, and literally sighed with relief at the end? You subconsciously used that sigh to release the tension you had been storing up in your body, and return you to a state of calm curiosity. It turns out that this technique – like smiling to become happier – works even if you do it intentionally.
One effect of taking a deep breath is to oxygenate your blood, which leaves you feeling invigorated and ready to go. To get the largest amount of air into your lungs, you need to breathe from your diaphragm. Practice this by lying down on your back, and resting one hand on your chest and one hand on your stomach. Breathe slowly from the bottom of your lungs up, so that you feel your stomach hand rise into the air first. Do this several times, and try letting yourself breath normally, to feel the difference. You will quickly get the hang of it.
So the next time you hit a block, before getting frustrated and conditioning yourself to dislike work even more, take a deep breath and relax! Afterwards, take another look at your work with a set of fresh eyes.
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