When Breathing Backfires: How to Stop Overwhelm
When you start to spiral, “just breathe” can backfire.
One of my clients said, “When I’m stressed, even thinking about my breath makes me more stressed! I need to move first. Then I can breathe.”
This makes perfect sense. When your system is ramped up and you're juggling all the things, breathing can feel like pressure. A little movement -- getting into your body -- can release stress and create the space you need for breathing.
🎥 Get my favorite poses for a quick reset in this video: 3 Nervous System Reset Moves for Stress & Overwhelm Relief
Remember: when you’re stressed, overwhelmed, or careening towards burnout, it's hard to do what you really need. It’s tempting to hit the easy button—more coffee, a glass of wine, binge-watching—instead of the reset button—taking a walk, moving & breathing, truly resting. Or giving yourself a whole day to recalibrate.
I felt that this weekend. The workshop I signed up for seemed like a big commitment but time was the essential ingredient. More time allowed for a real shift—and a reset that sticks. That’s why I love a day-long retreat: it’s not a week or a full weekend. It’s just a day, but you can go deep.
Give yourself a real reset on November 9 during the daylong retreat at Padma. There will be nervous system nourishment, yoga asana, and movement science. You’ll leave feeling centered, strong and at home in your body.
If your system has been asking for a real reset—especially before the holiday season—give yourself this time. Especially if it feels like a big commitment. It's probably just what you need.
May your practice be a reset,
Alison
P.S. Share this with a friend or family members who's been overwhelmed recently!
