I teach children to practice “Take Five” when they feel overwhelmed or fearful.

We hold up our hand and count down five long, smooth breaths, folding in a digit with each breath.

This is a beneficial habit for adults, too. It serves a dual purpose:

1. We give ourselves a moment (five actually) to breathe before reacting; we are able to respond mindfully.
2. We are performing the international sign for stop, which may cause the other (the trigger) to pause and breathe.

The Practice:

Take five conscious breaths.
Do this often.

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Editor: Rachel Nussbaum

Photo:  Jennifer Moore