4. Air

Available for over a year

Anxiety is the most common form of mental illness in the UK, with nearly a fifth of people experiencing it over the course of a year. Although it is often treated through medication, there are many alternative ways which are proving to be very effective in reducing anxiety amongst some people. This series explores how connecting with the elemental forces of nature helps people with a range of mental illnesses to feel better. We also learn about the current academic research behind these methods. Join us at an infant school in Nottingham where young children regularly learn breathing techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Hear about research from Italy that shows how slowing our breathing impacts positively on brain activity. Plus, breath coach and founder of School Breathe, Aimee Hartley, shares her experience of learning to breathe well. Produced and presented by Helen Needham Research by Anna Miles and Maud Start Original Music by Anthony Cowie Mixed by Ron McCaskill A BBC Scotland production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in July 2023.