Allowing someone space to think, giving them room to maneuver, granting them freedom, affording them breathing room, giving them leeway, giving them slack, giving them latitude, giving them wiggle room, releasing the pressure, easing off the throttle, loosening the reins, taking a step back, relaxing the grip, lessening the intensity, reducing the stress, alleviating the burden, removing the weight, and granting them respite are all synonyms for the phrase "let someone breathe." These phrases all refer to the act of giving someone the flexibility and space they need to handle a situation without being overwhelmed or suffocated.