Breath

Breathing, the normal process of inhaling and exhaling air from our lungs, is a practice most of us do without having to think about it. Unless we’re in a situation that requires a heightened awareness of our breathing, we usually don’t (have to) think about the body mechanics of it. Inhale-exhale. No biggie, right? 

Except that sometimes it is. 

A few months ago, I had a panic attack, a highly unusual occurrence for me. Despite my exhaustion in the wee hours of the morning, sleep escaped me as the heavy weight of dread settled on my chest, sucking the air out of my lungs. Within seconds, my heart rate quickened and I struggled to catch my breath. Frantic, I sat up, swung my feet to the floor, and hurried to the bathroom. Sitting on the edge of the tub with my hands glued to my jittery knees, I bowed my head and began to pray for shalom. As I slowly, deeply inhaled through my nose and exhaled through my mouth, I silently rehearsed the truth, “You are fully loved and never alone. You are fully loved and never alone.” Within minutes, my heart rate returned to its regular ‘lub-dub’ and my mind and spirit began to settle.  

You, dear readers, are well aware that some seasons are more difficult and harder to navigate than others. Whether we’re caring for a child (or aging parent) who requires extra care, struggling with how to approach a strained relationship, figuring out a new role in our career, or wondering how we can possibly meet the continual demands of each day, remembering to breathe is vital for our health–our survival. 

Since I was a young girl, I have found nature to be an effective antidote to anxiety and now as an adult, I crave solitude among the trees. Walking alone in the woods provides the necessary space and quiet for me to notice the rhythm of my breathing. Without other people or distractions, I am more attentive to my body’s response to anxious thoughts, to discover the root of them, and to process them along the way.

I rarely return from these arbor jaunts with THE perfect, very specific plan on how to resolve life’s heavy issues but the quiet time to breathe always brings an awareness of our Creator and his faithful love for each of us. The trees remind me to stretch toward the heavens and take a deep breath.

What helps you to manage the anxious thoughts that weigh heavy on you? 

This post is not intended to be prescriptive. I am not a mental health professional but I recommend a holistic approach to mental health, using therapy/medication/yoga/exercise/prayer, depending on the severity.