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Focused breathing can be a powerful tool in the hypnosis process, helping to regulate both mind and body. Dr. Andrew Huberman has explained the critical relationship between oxygen (O₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the body. While oxygen fuels our cells, CO₂ plays an equally important role—it triggers the release of oxygen from hemoglobin, ensuring it reaches the tissues that need it.

Why does this matter? When we’re anxious, we often over-breathe or hyperventilate, expelling too much CO₂. This disrupts the delicate balance between O₂ and CO₂, preventing oxygen from being effectively released into the body. The result? A paradoxical oxygen shortage and increased anxiety.

To restore this balance, we turn to a refined breathing practice: Box Breathing, supported by The CO₂ Test.

This simple assessment helps you determine your optimal Box Breathing rhythm. Here’s how it works:

• Take a normal inhale, then exhale slowly while timing the duration of your exhale.
• Based on that duration, you fall into one of three categories:
• Category 1: Exhale lasts ~20 seconds
  → Use Box Breathing with 3-second intervals
• Category 2: Exhale lasts 25–45 seconds
  → Use Box Breathing with 6-second intervals
• Category 3: Exhale lasts more than 45 seconds
  → Use Box Breathing with 8–10-second intervals

For example, a person in Category 1 would inhale for 3 seconds, hold for 3 seconds, exhale for 3 seconds, and rest for 3 seconds—then repeat. Over time, this practice can enhance oxygen/CO₂ balance, increase lung capacity, and support deeper states of calm and focus.

This simple techniques can become powerful anchors in a self-hypnosis practice, helping the body feel safe, grounded, and ready for change.

Box Breathing Guide Here

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Disclaimer: The “Just Suppose Blog” shares ideas in exploring personal progress as derived from various sources.  It is intended as information only and is not intended as advice to engage in any specific physical or mental activity.  Always consider whether these ideas, concepts, techniques & activities are right for you and always confer with your health professionals.