Breathing Into Calm, Naturally

I worked in the garden again today. It’s spring, and it was time to move a few plants around to help them thrive, and to plant some annuals for bright pops of color. I planned to be out there for just an hour, but things were going well, so I kept going. Eventually, I sat down to rest and take in the beauty around me.

Then—ping!—a moment of awareness, like a little text message from my body.
I noticed I was belly breathing. Full, deep, relaxed breaths.

As babies, we’re born belly breathing. But somewhere along the way, many of us shift into shallower chest breathing, especially when we’re stressed. I often teach belly (or diaphragmatic) breathing to clients as a calming tool, to ease moments of stress during the day and support a more restful night’s sleep.

But this time, I wasn’t thinking about my breath at all.
It was just…happening. Naturally.

And it felt amazing.

So what made this happen? Was it gardening? Or simply being outdoors in nature?
I don’t mind gardening, but I wouldn’t call it a hobby. What I really love is just being outside, feeling connected to the earth and the sky.

It made me curious: was this a one-time thing? Or does my body drop into belly breathing more often than I realize, especially when I’m doing something I enjoy?

A few nights later, I was reading before bed. No expectations. Just enjoying my book.
Then—ping!—another wave of awareness. I checked in, and there it was again.
I was belly breathing.

What I’m learning

Our body knows how to return to balance on its own. We just have to notice what helps it get there.

It’s reassuring to know that belly breathing isn’t just a technique to practice. It’s also something our body naturally returns to, especially when we’re doing things that bring ease, joy, or a sense of connection.

So maybe the question isn’t, How do I remember to belly breathe?
But rather, What helps my body remember on its own?

A gentle reminder:

Your body knows how to find its way back to calm. Notice what activities seem to help it get there. See if you can make a little more space for them in your life.

Want to try this?

What’s something you love doing, just for you? The next time you’re doing it, pause for a moment and check in: How’s your breath? How do you feel? What’s shifted?

Just like in my earlier posts — where pulling weeds brought clarity and a chore turned into a gift — this simple moment reminded me how naturally our bodies can guide us back to calm.