Breath prayer for anxiety
A breath prayer for anxiety is a short line of Scripture or prayer said slowly with your breathing. Breathe in on the first half, like "Be still," and out on the second, like "and know that I am God." Slow breathing calms your body while the words turn your mind to God.
By RenewedSpirit team · Published · Updated
How do I pray a breath prayer?
Sit comfortably. Breathe in slowly through your nose for about four counts while praying the first half. Breathe out for about six counts while praying the second half. Repeat for two or three minutes.
"“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.”"
Be still, and know that I am God. One of the most common breath prayers.
"You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You."
God keeps in perfect peace the mind that is steadfast on Him.
What are some breath prayers from Scripture?
Try these pairs: "The Lord is my shepherd / I shall not want." "When I am afraid / I will trust in You." "Peace I leave with you / My peace I give you."
"A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You."
When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid."
Jesus gives a peace the world cannot give.
Is a breath prayer biblical?
The phrase is newer, but the practice is old: short, repeated prayers and meditating on Scripture.
"But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night."
The blessed person meditates on God's law day and night.
Frequently asked questions
Is breath prayer the same as meditation?
It's Christian meditation: focusing on God and His Word, not emptying your mind.
How long should I do it?
Two or three minutes often helps. Stop if you feel lightheaded and breathe normally.
Can breath prayer stop a panic attack?
It can help calm your body. If panic attacks are frequent, talk to a doctor or counselor too.
Keep going
Scripture and sources
Psalm 46:10; Isaiah 26:3; Psalm 23:1; Psalm 56:3; John 14:27; Psalm 1:2. Berean Standard Bible (BSB), public domain.
Reviewed by the RenewedSpirit team · Editorial standards