Just Breathe

There's a marker in routine blood work that reveals something fascinating about how we breathe. 

When CO2 levels drop below 24, it indicates mild chronic hyperventilation—something most of us do without realizing it.

This subtle pattern of shallow, rapid breathing creates a cascade of effects like increased acidity in our bodies, higher inflammation levels, and internal pH disruptions.

We slip into this state SO easily when we're stressed, anxious, or not remembering to slow down.

Here’s the irony, though: We're usually completely unaware it's happening.

The best way to reverse this pattern is exactly what you'd expect…

Just breathe. 

But of course, it’s easier said than done. We need reminders to break unconscious habits.

My suggestion to patients has always been to set a daily phone reminder to pause and breathe intentionally. 

Recently, I decided it was time to practice what I preach.

So now, every day at 1 PM, my phone buzzes with a simple alert: "Breathe."

I cannot overstate how transformative this has been. I had no idea how desperately I needed a 30-second break to stop, slow down, take a few deep breaths, and reset.

No matter where I am or what I'm doing, that little alert triggers an automatic response. I slow down, take several sweet, slow breaths, and feel my entire system recalibrate. 

Instead of staying locked in non-stop high activity and stress, I'm giving myself permission to pause.

After one month of this practice, I feel genuinely different—calmer, more centered, and more resilient throughout my days.

I know it’s hard to believe this tiny little change can make a difference.

So I'm extending this same challenge to you. Set a daily breathing reminder on your phone. Pick a time that works for your schedule, and when it goes off, simply stop and take 3 slow deep breaths.

Try it for a week. Then try it for a month. I'd love to hear if it shifts your days, too.

In health,

Dr. Jessica