20 Ways Deep Breathing Reduces Cortisol Instantly

14. Deep Breathing for Pain Management (Chronic Pain)

For those living with chronic pain, deep breathing offers a potent, non-pharmacological tool. Stress and pain often create a vicious cycle, where pain exacerbates stress, and stress amplifies pain perception, leading to higher cortisol. Deep breathing interrupts this cycle by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help relax tense muscles and modulate pain signals in the brain. It shifts focus away from discomfort, allowing the body to enter a healing state and naturally reduce pain-related cortisol surges.