Relaxation activities 2. Relaxation activity – Mindful breathing This exercise will help you feel calm and reduces stress. You will breathe with your stomach according to a rhythm. This exercise will take: 5 minutes. This is how you do it: Sit straight in a chair and make sure your face and shoulders are relaxed. Bring your hands to your stomach and breathe into it. Breathe in for 4 counts and out for 8 counts, at a comfortable pace. Your stomach should expand with each inhale and contract with each exhale. Return to your normal breathing and spend one minute just observing yourself breathing and noticing how you feel. Practice listening to your own thoughts without negative judgement. If your mind wanders, refocus on breathing and meditation.