Overloaded? Remember to Breathe

By Sandy Schroeder

A dear friend of mine often reminded me to keep right on living when times got tough. He was very successful in every aspect of his life, and fought many battles, but he never forgot to breathe! He took time to enjoy a good dinner, a glass of wine, a chat with an old friend, or a chapter from a good book. Then he would surge back into the battle.

He also loved jazz, French crime mysteries and a great antipasto. We spent many happy Sundays consuming great quantities of fettuccini alfredo and antipasto from a favorite restaurant, as we watched the French cops roam through Paris streets.

Come Monday morning he would be up at 5 a.m., working at his desk on his latest writing or stock reports. He always took time to breathe, but he was also a tireless worker.

He always reminded me to breathe because I tend to keep right on powering ahead when I am in the midst of a battle. Right now that may not be the best approach. We are in the midst of an ongoing pandemic crisis that requires a level head and focused approach to keep our loved ones and ourselves safe.  If we wear ourselves out obsessing over the danger as we spin around trying to do everything possible, we could impair our health, and compromise our effectiveness. 

My friend would nod and repeat his advice, "You can't live or die on every pitch. Relax and breathe. You will be fine."

I am sure he would endorse mindfulness to stay calm.  If mindfulness sounds good to you, it can be as simple as finding a quiet spot in your home or on your patio to sit and breathe as you let your thoughts flow through your mind, unchecked an unjudged. Later you may feel a great relief from stress, and new strength to meet your demands.

Other Ways to Go

Meditation also works when you take a short walk early in the morning, or later in the evening. Or it could be time spent sketching, writing, listening to jazz, symphonies or country fiddles, working with wood, fabrics or glass, knitting or sewing, or creating a new soup or salad. If time flies by as you become absorbed, mindfulness will be at work.

Wherever you are today with ongoing efforts, struggles, concern for family, or other challenges, just remember to breathe.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Irvine, Calif.