5 habits to handle stress better

When stress hits, your body reacts instantly—your heart races, and your breathing becomes shallow. Deep breathing helps counter this response. Taking slow, controlled breaths signals your brain to relax, lowering your heart rate and reducing tension. Techniques like box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4) can instantly calm your nervous system. Practicing deep breathing daily, even for a few minutes, strengthens your ability to stay grounded during stressful moments. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can be done anytime, anywhere—whether you’re in a meeting, traffic, or facing a tough decision.