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The 3-Minute Breath Reset

A hard reset you can use in conflict, anxious spirals, or before you respond. Three minutes. Complete nervous system regulation.

Minute 1

Arrive in Your Body

🦶

Sit or stand with both feet on the floor

🤲

Place one hand on your chest, one on your belly

🌬️

Inhale through the nose for 4 counts

💨

Exhale through the mouth for 6 counts

Repeat for the full minute.

Phrase in your mind:

"Inhale: here. Exhale: now."

Minute 2

Talk to Your Nervous System

Keep breathing 4 in, 6 out. On each exhale, silently say:

"This feeling is intense, not deadly."
"I have survived this feeling before."
"I am safe enough in this moment to slow down."

Let your shoulders drop on the exhale.

Minute 3

Choose One Next Step

Ask:

"What is one small action that future me will thank me for?"

Examples:

  • Wait 15 minutes before replying
  • Change "paragraph text" into two simple sentences
  • Ask for a pause instead of exploding
  • Put the phone down and drink water

Lock it in:

"I choose to act from my center, not my panic."

Quick Reference Card

Minute 1

4 in, 6 out

"Here. Now."

Minute 2

Same breath

"Intense, not deadly."

Minute 3

Choose one action

"From center, not panic."

Build a complete regulation toolkit

The Anxious Healing Program includes five more somatic drills plus daily practice guides.

Learn More →