
4 min learnNew DelhiAug 22, 2026 03:58 PM IST
Author and actor Alia Bhatt’s sister, Shaheen Bhatt, lately mentioned the physiological sigh, a respiration approach that includes a deep inhale, adopted by a shorter second inhale after which a protracted exhale. Sharing the approach on Instagram, she stated, “The subsequent time you’re feeling anxious, do that earlier than you attempt to assume your method out of it.”
Explaining the best way to carry out it, Bhatt stated, “What it appears to be like like is a protracted inhale, a brief sharp inhale on the prime after which a protracted exhale by way of the mouth.” She urged doing it about 4 or 5 instances, and utilizing it when feeling anxious, panicked or overwhelmed.
However what really occurs within the physique whenever you take a physiological sigh, and might it actually assist calm nervousness? Talking to Indianexpress.com, Dr Chaitanya Sheoran, Advisor Psychiatrist, Maccure Hospital, explains how the approach works and the place it matches into nervousness administration.
DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
What’s a physiological sigh?
A physiological sigh includes two consecutive inhales by way of the nostril, adopted by a protracted, sluggish exhale. The primary is normally a deep breath, while the second is shorter.
Dr Sheoran explains that the second inhale reinflates the tiny air sacs within the lungs. A chronic exhalation may help cut back physiological arousal.
This issues throughout nervousness as a result of the physique’s respiration sample can develop into fast or shallow, typically intensifying sensations akin to breathlessness and chest tightness.
How can it calm the physique’s stress response?
“This may help to sluggish the respiration down, cut back the sensation of breathlessness and assist the physique transfer from an elevated ‘fight-or-flight’ state to a calmer state,” says Dr Sheoran.
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The extended exhalation is especially essential. Moderately than taking repeated fast breaths, the approach encourages a slower respiration sample that will assist the nervous system shift in direction of a calmer state.
Is there scientific proof behind it?
“Research have proven that cyclic sighing, which incorporates managed respiration with repeated physiological sighs, can cut back respiratory price and subjective stress and enhance temper,” Dr Sheoran explains.
He provides that the prolonged exhalation might enhance parasympathetic exercise, probably serving to regulate the autonomic nervous system.
Nonetheless, there is a vital distinction between utilizing the approach to briefly handle bodily signs of hysteria and treating an nervousness dysfunction.
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“It must be thought of a short-term soothing technique, moderately than a therapy for an nervousness dysfunction,” he cautions.
Are you able to practise it day by day?
Physiological sighs don’t essentially should be reserved for moments of panic. Common apply might assist folks develop into extra acquainted and cozy with managed respiration, making it simpler to make use of the approach when stress ranges rise. “In both case, it may be useful,” says Dr Sheoran, referring to each each day stress administration and acute nervousness.
Throughout an acute episode, it could assist settle a few of the bodily signs related to nervousness. Practising it repeatedly, in the meantime, may help build familiarity with the breathing pattern.
Tips on how to strive the physiological sigh
The essential sequence is straightforward:
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1. Take a deep inhale by way of your nostril.
2. Take a second, shorter inhale by way of the nostril.
3. Slowly exhale by way of your mouth.
4. Repeat for a couple of cycles, whereas protecting the respiration snug moderately than forcing very deep breaths.
The approach is greatest seen as a device for settling acute bodily arousal, moderately than a treatment for nervousness. If respiration workout routines make you are feeling dizzy or uncomfortable, cease and return to regular respiration.
DISCLAIMER: This text is predicated on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.



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