The power of the sigh
Get ahead of stress, naturally.
We usually think of a sigh as showing sadness, relief, or tiredness. But did you know it's also a powerful, natural form of breathwork?
Here's how it works:
When you sigh, you take two quick breaths in through the nose, one right after the other, and then breathe out slowly and completely through your mouth.
Why is this important?
Your lungs have tiny air sacs called alveoli. Sometimes, these sacs can collapse, making it harder for your lungs to work properly. Sighing helps re-inflate them, so your lungs can do their job.
Sighing also helps your body switch from "fight-or-flight" mode (when you're stressed) to a calm, relaxed state. It's like hitting a reset button for your nervous system.
Plus, even though it's a physical thing, sighing can also release emotions. It's a natural way to let go of tension or feel relief.
Here’s the best part: you can use sighing proactively, to stay calm before stress hits.
Try this:
The Physiological Sigh
Two inhales through the nose, one long exhale through the mouth.
Breathe in deeply through your nose.
Take in a little more air, filling your lungs completely.
Breathe out slowly and fully through your mouth.
Repeat 4 times.
Pro tip: it works even better when you exaggerate the sigh.
Take a moment to try it out. Notice how you feel.
-Jake Twomey