What is the primary goal of tactical breathing?

The primary goal of tactical breathing is to promote calm and control. This technique is particularly useful in high-stress situations, such as those encountered in law enforcement or military operations. By focusing on controlled breathing, individuals can decrease their heart rate, lower anxiety levels, and enhance their ability to think clearly and make rational decisions under pressure.

Tactical breathing helps regulate the body's physiological responses that may be triggered by acute stress, counteracting the fight or flight response rather than invoking it. While it may have secondary benefits for physical exercise or mental health over time, its immediate aim in critical scenarios is to achieve a state of calm that supports effective decision-making and actions.