"Catch your breath" means to take a moment to rest and recover from physical exertion, emotional shock, or surprise. There are several alternate phrases that can be used instead of "catch your breath" such as, catch your wind, take a breather, rest a moment, pause for a moment, recover your composure, calm down, or regain your breath. These synonyms all have a similar meaning and can be used interchangeably depending on the context. Whether it's after a strenuous workout or a shocking event, taking a moment to catch your breath can help you regain your focus and continue on with renewed energy.