This is from Chapter 2, Page 28. The 5-5-5- Breath. The goal here is to do the 5-5-5- breath DAILY to see how it stabilizes you. Share below what you notice. Answer the reflection questions. Amid the chaos of our world and the unease of our internal states, you are far from alone in your quest for a reprieve. But the call to action remains: The urgency for each of us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing is more critical now than ever. If the state of the world teaches us anything, it’s that sweeping changes start with individual transformation.
The 5-5-5 breathing technique, known more broadly as diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing, involves taking slow, intentional breaths through your nose, allowing your diaphragm to rise as your lungs fill with air, and then exhaling slowly through your mouth. Through this practice, you begin to nurture a deeper connection with yourself, fostering a sense of wholeness and well-being that radiates into all aspects of your life. This technique helps you become present, reduces stress, and begins to unravel the cycle that keeps you chasing after ephemeral highs.
In the larger context, this exercise serves as a microcosm for the book’s overarching message—there are healthy, sustainable ways to achieve a state of peace and contentment without putting oneself at risk. The intentional act of breathing is not just a simple exercise; it’s a symbol of the self-care and conscious choices needed to heal from within.
By taking these small but crucial steps, you don’t just avoid the pitfalls of seeking external solutions to internal problems—you actively create a life filled with moments of genuine peace and contentment. And thus, you initiate the process of healing, not just for yourself, but also contributing to a societal shift away from destructive tendencies and towards holistic well-being. This simple breath is the basis for deeper exploration and will begin to dissolve the anxiety and stress that have you trapped in chasing ecstasy.
The goal of this practice is to become mindful of your breathing throughout each day. You might set timers to remind yourself to check in on your breath and practice the following steps. You might journal about what you notice using the following questions. This is all about awareness as you foster a closer connection to what is going on in your body.
Reflection Questions
1. How often do you find yourself holding your breath?
2. When you stop to notice your breathing, what is the quality? Shallow, quick, long, slow, or deep?
3. When you practice 5-5-5 breathing, how does your body feel?
4. What are some other breathwork practices you might try?