An Easy Exercise To Release Stress In Under 5 Minutes, From A Yoga Instructor

Stress can creep in unexpectedly or strike exactly when you'd expect (say, Election Day, for example). Regardless of how, when, or why stress hits, it's helpful to lean on worry-reducing techniques like exercise. However, if finding time for an hourlong workout causes you to feel even more overwhelmed, consider this single stress-releasing movement called "Breath of Joy."

With just five to eight repetitions, this move is short and effective enough to practice morning, midday, evening, or even when you wake up in the middle of the night. However, Anice recommends starting the day with it. 

"When we are anxious and stressed, breathing typically becomes shallow in the chest," Anice tells mbg. "Shifting to three-part breath (which is a full complete breath done by inhaling deep into the low belly, into the rib cage, then the chest), is an excellent way to calm the mind, reconnect to the body, and cultivate presence," she says.  

Along with three-part breath, this exercise adds arm movements, which help temporarily stimulate the sympathetic nervous system by increasing oxygen levels in the bloodstream, she explains. Deep exhalations follow strong inhalations, which helps to release tension and stress from the body.