Box breathing and how to hack flow

Written by Stuart Haden on August 24, 2016

Optimal performance can be engineered, we can all increase our odds of finding flow with a few simple and deliberate intentions. And like many things in life this first flow hack takes an everyday activity and adding a dose of precision. Something that you are doing right now, something that you can do with greater awareness, right now. A few minutes when you need it most, a daily practice to keep you on top of your game.

Breathe. Hold. Breathe. Hold. The foundations of box breathing, do try this at home. Breathe in, 2, 3, 4, 5. Hold, 2, 3, 4, 5. Breathe out, 2, 3, 4, 5. Hold, 2, 3, 4, 5.

Using this technique you can take breathing from a 2D to a 4D activity. It’s a great way to reset, reboot and upgrade. Even 3 rounds of box breathing can help kick you into a flow state. Top tips include – paying attention to holding your breathe and taking your time to breathe out. Trust me you’ll learn to appreciate breathing and the immediate benefits it delivers.