Future Self Journal

Mindfulness Tool: Mindful Breathing Exercise to Support Habit Formation

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. When it comes to building new habits, mindfulness can be an incredibly useful tool for staying focused and on track. One of the simplest mindfulness exercises is mindful breathing. By taking a few minutes each day to practice mindful breathing, you can support your habit formation efforts and create positive changes in your life.

To get started…

  1. Find a quiet place where you can sit or lie down comfortably. 
  2. Close your eyes and focus your attention on your breath. 
  3. Take a deep breath in through your nose, and then slowly exhale through your mouth. 
  4. As you inhale, focus on the sensation of the breath entering your body. 
  5. As you exhale, focus on the sensation of the breath leaving your body.
  6. Continue to breathe deeply and focus your attention on your breath. 

If your mind starts to wander, simply acknowledge the thought and then gently bring your attention back to your breath. You may find it helpful to count each breath to help you stay focused.

Practicing this mindful breathing exercise for just a few minutes each day can help you develop greater awareness and concentration, which can in turn support your habit formation efforts. Why not give it a try today? Your mind and body will thank you!