It is said that mindfulness practices are simple, but not easy. The same can be said about relaxation practices. The instructions are straightforward enough — for example, take a few slower, deeper breaths — but for a variety of fascinating reasons, they can be difficult to implement. Doing so, especially amid times of high stress, frustration, and a wide range of agitated emotional and physical states can go a long way.

One reason practice is not easy is that we forget to do so. Reminders can help remedy this — things like a strategically placed sticky note that recites, “Breathe,” “STOP,” or “This too shall pass.”  Even these reminders may be to no avail when we are caught in the grips of an agitated emotion.  At such time we simply do not have the capacity to turn to a helpful breathing technique or reflect on a useful insight.

In today’s column we’ll learn how the daily commute can serve as a cue to practice one of the simplest relaxation exercises — taking a few slower breaths. Each time you practice, you will offer yourself a little relief in the moment as well as get some practice under your belt for those hectic moments when even taking a few slow breaths becomes elusive.