We are having a terrific day, my husband’s meds are working well and life is calm then BAM there it goes. Something happens out of left field, maybe the dog throws up or the tree in our backyard falls down or we learn that we are in a lockdown due to a worldwide pandemic, whatever it is things go crazy in an instant. Stress levels skyrocket and everything goes out of control.

How can I maintain a constant state of calm when crazy is just around the corner? How can I stop myself from reacting when things do happen until my brain has a chance to join me?

I have found that the best technique for self-calming is to breathe. Whenever I got upset as a child, I was told to count to 10. This is still a fine intervention for me, but I have added taking in a deep breath while counting. Then I let it out while counting to 10 again. A few slow, deep breaths help me regain control of my brain and the clarity to act purposefully as I move forward. I may still react in the wrong way but at least I am thinking about what I am doing. Remember, the crazy will always be there, make sure your brain is too.