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Box Breathing: The Stress Relief Tool Used by Navy Seals

By MonkeyMind Team · May 24, 2026

What is Box Breathing?


Box breathing, also known as four-square breathing, is a powerful technique used by high-stress professionals, including Navy Seals, athletes, and first responders, to clear their minds and handle extreme stress.


It is called box breathing because it consists of four equal phases, like the four sides of a square.


How to Practice Box Breathing


  • **Inhale** for 4 seconds.
  • **Hold** your breath at the top for 4 seconds.
  • **Exhale** fully for 4 seconds.
  • **Hold** your empty lungs for 4 seconds.

  • Repeat this cycle for 4 to 5 rounds. This practice stimulates the vagus nerve, signaling the brain to shift from the sympathetic "fight-or-flight" mode to the parasympathetic "rest-and-digest" state. It lowers blood pressure and brings instant mental calm. Practice box breathing with real-time visual prompts in our [breathing exercises section](/resonance).

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