Breathe Like a Champion!
- Kate Slatter
- Mar 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 9
When was the last time you thought about how you breathe? We do it all day, every day, without a second thought. What if I told you that how you breathe could be the key to managing stress, improving focus, and even boosting endurance?
Tennis champion Novak Djokovic considers breath control his superpower. Under pressure, he slows his breath, stays present, and manages his emotions like a pro and it’s not just sports psychology - there is science behind this!
The Science of Breath
Most of us take shallow, unconscious breaths, keeping us in a low-grade state of stress. When we breathe deeply and intentionally, we activate the parasympathetic nervous system - our ‘rest-and-digest’ mode. This shift reduces anxiety, supports brain function, and even enhances physical endurance.
Deep breathing can:
✅ Lower cortisol (your stress hormone)
✅ Improve oxygen delivery to your brain
✅ Enhance focus and mental clarity
✅ Boost endurance and energy levels
Breathwork in Action
High performers use breathwork as a tool—whether they’re stepping onto the court, giving a presentation, or managing daily stress. The good news? You don’t need to be an athlete to benefit!
Try this simple technique:
🔹 Box breathing – Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4. Repeat.
🔹 Diaphragmatic breathing – Breathe deeply into your belly, not your chest, and slow your breathing.
🔹 Nasal breathing – Helps regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, improving endurance.
The Awareness Challenge
For now, just notice your breath. Is it deep or shallow? Fast or slow? A little awareness can go a long way in shifting your nervous system from stress mode to calm control.
In my next blog, I’ll walk you through practical breathing exercises to add to your toolkit. Until then, let me know - have you ever tried breathwork? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!
