Shallow breathing is an automatic physical response to anxiety and also increases anxiety. When you are feeling uptight or anxious, you can consciously counteract it by slowing and deepening your breath. Inhale slowly counting to five. Exhale slowly counting to five. Calming your breath and allowing pauses between your inhalation and exhalation will have a direct calming effect on your mind and body.
Marriage & Family Therapist, Author and Straight from the Heart TV host