Don't Forget to Breathe

 How do you react when someone criticizes you or tells you something you really don't want to hear? 

Triggers.   
Emotions.
Yelling. Loudly.   
Rapid heart beat.   
Fear.   
Shock.   
Insults.   
Childish rage.    
Defending our territory.   
Thoughtless words.   
Drama.
Ego.

 But ..... what about pausing and taking some time to breathe?   

Our initial response is not always what is best for us. Reacting negatively can sometimes only escalate the situation.   

We could save ourselves a lot of pain if we first pause and take a breath before we respond. Or better yet, if the situation allows, sleep on it and allow yourself to calm down.   

Take a moment and ground your thoughts and try the pause method. Allow your feet to feel the ground beneath you. Feel the air on your skin. Listen to the sounds around you. Feel the feeling within you before you say the first thing that pops into your head.   

Some situations may require an immediate response, but even so, take a moment before verbalizing or reacting.   

Be in the moment. Move beyond reaction into a subtle calm before speaking.   

See what happens.