Premature ejaculation
Breathing techniques to last longer in bed
When arousal climbs, most men start breathing fast and shallow without noticing. Learning a few breathing techniques to last longer in bed is one of the simplest ways to slow things down.
In short: Fast, shallow chest breathing pushes the body towards ejaculation. Slow belly breathing, with a longer out-breath, calms the nervous system, relaxes the pelvic floor and keeps arousal steady. Practise daily for a few minutes, then use the techniques during masturbation and sex, especially when you feel close.
Why breathing affects ejaculation
Ejaculation is controlled partly by the sympathetic nervous system, the fight-or-flight response. Rapid breathing and tension feed this response. Slow breathing activates the opposite, calming system, which gives you more time.
Technique 1: belly breathing
- Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly
- Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds so the belly rises, not the chest
- Breathe out slowly for 6 seconds
- Repeat for 5 minutes a day
Technique 2: the long exhale
When you feel close during sex, slow down, breathe in for 3 seconds and out for 7. A longer out-breath calms the body quickly.
Technique 3: box breathing
In for 4, hold for 4, out for 4, hold for 4. Useful before sex if you feel anxious.
Relax the pelvic floor as you breathe out
Many men with PE clench the pelvic floor. On each out-breath, let the muscles soften. This pairs well with reverse kegels, described in premature ejaculation exercises.
How to practise
- Week 1: belly breathing daily, lying down
- Week 2: practise during masturbation, slowing your breathing as arousal rises
- Week 3: combine with the squeeze technique or start-stop
- Week 4: use during sex with your partner
Other benefits
Slow breathing also reduces general anxiety, helps with sleep and can support erections by lowering stress hormones. Read performance anxiety in men.
When you need more support
If breathing and techniques are not enough, our naturopaths offer discreet consultations and personalised natural plans for premature ejaculation, including stress, sleep and pelvic health.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you usually ejaculate sooner than you or your partner would like?
- Has this always been the case, or did it start recently?
- Do you feel you have little or no control over when you ejaculate?
- Is it causing stress, avoidance or tension in your relationship?
- Do you also have trouble getting or keeping an erection?
A yes to questions one, three or four suggests a consultation would help. Problems that started recently, or that come with erection difficulties, are worth discussing early, because the cause often guides the most effective natural plan.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can breathing help you last longer in bed?
Yes. Slow belly breathing calms the nervous system and helps keep arousal steady, giving more control.
How should I breathe during sex to last longer?
Slow down and breathe into your belly, making the out-breath longer than the in-breath, especially when you feel close.
How long does it take to learn?
Most men feel more relaxed within a week of daily practice, and better control within a few weeks.
Do breathing techniques work for anxiety too?
Yes. They lower stress hormones and can help both performance anxiety and erections.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
