IRRITATED?

Tune into your belly

When frustration or anger flare up, your breathing often becomes shallow, which can cut off oxygen to the brain and exacerbate hot emotions, cautions Cruise. The fast Rx: Place your hand on your belly, then inhale deeply for five counts and exhale slowly for five counts, continuing for 1 minute. “Putting your hand on your stomach helps you focus on the movement of breath in and out of your body and brings your attention back to the present,” notes Cruise. “This technique also slows down your breathing, which causes blood pressure to drop, so you’ll feel calm and in control.”