Breathe Through It

If you’ve put on a few pounds, it might have as much to do with what’s in your head as what’s on your plate. “Emotional stress can cause weight gain”. It speeds the conversion of calories to fat because you’re more likely to overeat or make unhealthy choices when stressed. Manage the stress, and you’ll manage the weight. A great way to do that: Focus on slowing down your breathing, which will help reduce stress hormones.

TRY THIS: The Pursed-Lip Breath. Slow, practiced breathing increases HRV (heart rate variability) and makes you more aware of your actions, so you’d better able to lower your stress level and get a handle on overeating. A four-second nasal inhale followed by an eight-second exhale through puckered lips (as if exhaling through a straw). Another option: The Hindu breathing method called ujjayi. Inhale through your nose for six seconds, then exhale through your mouth for six seconds as if you’re trying to fog up a mirror, making a “hahahhh” sound while pulling in your abdomen. On your next breath, try making the same noise with your mouth closed. It should sound like a seashell against your ear.