If there’s anyone under stress, it’s Ray Donovan – yes he’s a TV character but on some level there may be a little bit of Ray in all of us. I’m compelled to watch the show even though it stresses me out! In the show, Ray is now seeing a therapist and they “talk” (he is not the most easily engaged of men), but when his therapist tells him to “breathe,” that scene was golden for me.
It may sound like a lot of hocus pocus but breathing exercises can help to both release tension and keep us alert and connected. One of the best things about using breath to reduce stress is we all have it in us – breathing is a natural process and harnessing breath to help regulate our emotions is quite simple. Paying attention to our breathing, thinking about the swiftness and flow of it, and thinking about what’s happening in the body as we breathe in and out is a useful practice.
One of the most important things I’ve learned about using breath to reduce anxiety is that the exhale is key here. Try this easy exercise: inhale to the count of 3 and lengthen the exhale to a count of 6. Remember that the exhale is central to calm anxiety. Try it, you’ve got it in you!
Anxiety and stress can play a large role in our sexual function. If you believe that you’re experiencing any form of sexual dysfunction, contact us for a free phone consultation.