Are You Holding Your Breath Right Now? (Probably)

Breathe first. Then reply.

Ever notice that you stop breathing while reading a message, typing a reply, or scrolling your phone? You lean in, shoulders creeping up, eyes fixed on the screen—and suddenly realize you haven’t taken a full breath in who knows how long. It’s surprisingly common, and it even has a name: Screen Apnea.

I’ve noticed I do it—answering texts, replying to emails, focusing so hard that my breath just… disappears.

Former Microsoft executive Linda Stone coined the term Email Apnea after noticing that many people unknowingly hold their breath or breathe shallowly while reading and replying to emails. Her informal research suggests that about 80% of people do this—unless our daily work involves breath control training, like singers, athletes, Air Force pilots or musicians who play wind instruments.

So far, there haven’t been large-scale studies measuring exactly how often people hold their breath during screen use, how long it lasts, or what the full physiological effects might be—on heart rate, stress hormones, or focus.

We do know that our bodies react immediately when our breath slows or pauses—it’s like flipping the ‘alert’ switch. Studies suggest that even routine tasks that focus your attention on screens can alter breathing rhythm and increase heart rate.

All that subtle stress can add up, leaving you tense and distracted.

But there’s a simple fix: next time you’re typing, texting, or deep in a Zoom call, pause. Notice your breath. Let your shoulders drop, exhale fully, maybe even add a soft smile. A few mindful breaths can help your body reset and your mind clear.

Breathe first. Then reply.