Stress management is important after Lap Band in North Florida, and can be as simple as taking a deep breath. That’s right—something we all do more than 18,000 times a day can be one of the most powerful ways to lower stress levels naturally.

Stress is an inevitable part of life both before and after weight loss surgery, but too much stress can spell trouble for those trying to lose weight. Stress is a frequent culprit behind emotional eating, a common habit that causes us to seek out unhealthy comfort foods to deal with our emotions. After Lap Band, stress-related overeating can lead to discomfort and a stretched stomach pouch; after gastric bypass, it can contribute to dumping syndrome.

Fortunately, everyone has a powerful tool in the fight against stress: a pair of lungs. Though we all know how to breathe, we seldom do so optimally and instead take short breaths that don’t fully engage the muscles of the diaphragm or provide the lower lungs with a complete share of oxygen. This can lead to shortness of breath and anxiety, but deep abdominal breathing provides a simple solution, helping us calm down and lower our heart rate and blood pressure.

Deep breathing is a surprisingly effective stress reduction technique that can be done by anyone, anytime, anywhere. Here’s how to get started:

1. Find a quiet, relaxing place. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
2. Breathe in deeply through your nose, filling your lungs and abdomen with air. Allow both your chest and belly to expand fully and imagine peace and calm flowing into you with each breath.
3. Breathe out fully through your mouth or nose. Imagine your tensions and worries leaving your body as you breathe out each time.

To get the most out of deep breathing, try to repeat these steps for about 15 minutes. If this is your first time, start by switching between normal breaths and deep breaths to help yourself feel just how calming abdominal breathing can be. Deep breathing can be done as often as you like and can help you relax even away from home—try it in the car or at the office if you’re feeling stressed out.

We don’t usually think about the way we breathe, but doing so can help you take advantage of one of your body’s most effective stress-reduction tools. How else do you manage your stress levels after gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy or Lap Band in North Florida? Tell us how you relax in the comments below!