In our last blog post, we discussed how connecting to the present moment can greatly assist in developing your intuition to unlock your best trading results.
The most common question we received after releasing this post was a simple but, essential one: “How can I learn to connect more to the present?”
So in this post, I’m excited to share with you one key exercise that you can start implementing today. This exercise will boost your awareness, leading you deeper and deeper into the present moment.
This exercise is a breathwork technique called the “4-7-8 method.” The 4-7-8 breathwork exercise has been utilized by practitioners all over the world to:
- Balance your mind and body.
- Reduce anxiety and stress.
- Help slow down your mind and thoughts.
Now, you might be wondering how these benefits can specifically help us as day traders.
Trading is undoubtedly a high-stress environment, and to make the best decisions in the moment, we need a relaxed mind and body. We want our thoughts to flow smoothly in one direction, aligned with our goal of achieving profitability in the market.
Our breath is the bridge that connects us to our body, grounding us in the present moment. Only with clarity in our thoughts and reduced anxiety can we perceive all the information the market is trying to show us. This heightened awareness allows us to make sound decisions that align with our trading strategy and goals.
The beauty of this exercise is that it can be done anywhere and is especially useful during active trading sessions. It’s also effective if you tend to struggle with letting trades run, as it can help keep your mind and body calm, preventing impulsive reactions.
Now that you know some of the benefits, let’s dive into how this exercise works.
It’s actually quite simple. You’ll start by inhaling deeply, filling your lungs and stomach for a total of four seconds.
Next, you’ll hold your breath for a count of seven seconds. If that feels too long for you, feel free to start with a duration that’s comfortable for you.
Lastly, you’ll exhale, releasing all of the air from your lungs over a count of eight seconds. You should feel your stomach fully retract as you exhale.
Repeat this process 6-10 times until you experience a rush of peace and clarity washing over your body.
I challenge you to try this practice the next time you’re setting up to trade, and while you’re actively trading. We’d love to hear about the breakthroughs this simple exercise brings to your trading experience.
Tag us on Instagram @RAYVAUGHNFX/@TECHNICALGODSLLC after completing your breath work session for a chance to win our funded account giveaway!
Stay tuned for part 3, where we will explore combining breathwork with meditation to achieve even higher levels of clarity and awareness, ultimately optimizing your trading results.