A number of years ago I recognized a pattern in my life when I experience stress. The source of that stress is insignificant. My response to stress is predictable and counter-productive. I hold my breath.

Welcome to the human race, Catherine Ann.

It is a very common reaction to the challenges life brings. Shortening or holding the breath sets off one of our natural survival mechanisms. The brain signals the nervous system for more oxygen. The nervous system signals the adrenals to fire which kicks everything into a higher gear so that the breath rate increases, sending oxygen to the brain. The drawback is that, in most situations, I don't need more adrenalin in my body because I am not in any danger. What I need are calming body chemicals so that I can make decisions or let something go and float on the calm waters of Life.

Somewhere along the way, I learned that the problem usually reveals the answer. Since I am shortening and holding my breath, the answer...