Exhale Slowly, Decide Boldly: Breath Controls Brain Rewards

A Neuron study shows that consciously extending the exhale increases heart-rate variability and boosts reward-related brain activity, making people more likely to take risks. Brain regions like the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and precuneus showed greater activation, linking bodily state to decision-making. The findings suggest simple breathing techniques could aid self-regulation and have potential clinical use for anxiety, depression, and eating behavior.