I hear myself saying, “Just breathe” as we transition from summer to the start of school.  Stress and anxiety start to show as the routine changes and a new normal begins.  My level of comfort is challenged by the unknown details of what lies ahead.

I avoid stress and anxiety by staying in the moment.  Taking each opportunity and challenge as it comes.  Being aware of what is going on around me, but staying focused on my intended path.     

The noise around us attempts to pull us off track daily.  Challenged by the thought of saying “no” or missing an opportunity to be with the group.  Paralyzed by both the thought of wanting to go out with the group and the realization that motivation is needed to make that happen.

The thought, “Just breathe,” helps center me in the moment and slow down the world around me.  Refocusing myself on prayer, listening to the opportunities around me, and being grateful for the present.  Choosing love and compassion, leaving behind stress and anxiety in exchange for inner peace.

At the start of something new, there is much unknown.  Slowing down my breathing, focusing on the current moment, and being prayerful are all helpful in making a smooth transition to my next adventure. 

I can be concerned about something without allowing worry to take over.  When I feel stress, I immediately give that stress to Jesus through prayer.  It might take me several rounds of prayer before I successfully rid myself of that worry.  When the worry is lifted, opportunity and solutions begin to surface, and inner peace returns.

As I am centered in peace, love and compassion overtake any thoughts of anger or frustration.  Allowing my faith to guide me, prayer to center me, slowly, I just breathe.

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