There are several ways to reduce stress, like working out, taking a long hot bath, or getting a massage. But believe it or not, maybe without even realizing it, is a proven stress reliever: breathing.

Relaxing your body and mind does not have to be complicated or time consuming. In fact, you can do it in less than five minutes! By practicing mindful breathing, you will relax your body from head to toe and help achieve a more relaxed state of mind.

To provide even more structure, and help you lead this practice for others, below are steps for a short guided meditation. It might be beneficial to schedule a certain time to perform this exercise, but you can also benefit from doing it when you're feeling particularly stressed or anxious.

You may be seated on a chair or a cushion on the floor. Keep your back straight, but don't hold it too firmly. Hands resting wherever they’re comfortable. Tongue on the roof of your mouth or wherever it’s comfortable.

Let yourself relax and become curious about your body seated here - the sensations it experiences, the touch, the connection with the floor or the chair. Do your best to relax any areas of tightness or tension. Breathe.

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You can sense how your breath naturally flows in and out. Take note of where in your body you feel your breath. It might be in your stomach. It can be in your throat, chest, or nostrils. One breath at a time, try to experience the breath's feelings. The next breath starts as soon as the previous one does. It's okay if you can't feel the breath throughout your entire body. We are more in touch to certain areas of the body than others, at different times of the day.

As you go, you could find that your thoughts begin to stray. You could find yourself having second thoughts. If it occurs, there is no issue. It's extremely natural. Try to notice that your mind has wandered. You might gently utter the words "thinking" or "wandering" in your brain. and then slowly bring your focus back to your breathing.

Stay for five to seven minutes. Notice your breath, in silence. From time to time, you’ll get lost in thought, then return to your breath. After a few minutes, once again notice your body, your whole body. Allow yourself to relax even more deeply and then, if it is possible, thank yourself for practicing this technique today.