“You have little sacks of air in the lungs, which increase the volume of air that you can bring in. Those sacks collapse over time, and as a result, oxygen levels start to go down and carbon dioxide levels go up in the bloodstream and body, and that a big part of the signaling of the stress response.” -Dr. Andrew Huberman

This double inhale “pops” the air sacks (alveoli), allowing oxygen in and enabling you to offload CO2 in the extended exhale.

Whether you are face to face with a Lion or receive an alarming text message, the neurons in brain react in the same way, by dumping epinephrine, acetylcholine, and other chemicals into your body. This causes a rapid heart rate, breathing, dilated pupils and other bodily responses all happen within less than half a second.

The best and quickest way to regulate this response and decrease the stress response without having to disengage from the stress-inducing activity is via the Physiological Sigh.

1. Inhale through the nose

2. At the top of that inhale, inhale again

3. Extend your exhale through your mouth

This is a real time tool that can be deployed anytime, anywhere to reduce stress.