Just breathe.

Eddie Vedder said it best in his 2009 song by the same name. The lyrics mention being together and enjoying each other’s presence in this very moment. In a time when this part of the world is opening back up maybe we can take his advice to heart right now.

The phrase just breathe is also used in tattoos to bring attention to the fact that mental illness is a real illness and it deserves respect, not shame. Just breathing again brings us back in to the here and right now. I’ve heard my two large dogs practicing it as I write today and realize we all could benefit by coming back to the breath, whether it’s during your work day, driving in ever increasing traffic, first thing in the morning or as we settle into our evening routines.

OK. Start by taking a long slow inhale and count to four. Hold the breath for a short second at the top of the breath and “just breathe” out for eight counts. Close your eyes and try it one more time. And again.

You got this.