We originally learned this in a movement class for my husband. It is a technique he can use to combat freezing in his gait. I am not sure whether he has tried it or not, what I do know is that it has become very helpful for me in my role as CarePartner. When anger, frustration, exhaustion, whatever gets in my way, I remember this mantra. I stop and take a breath; I think about what is happening in the moment; I shift my mindset into a healthier perspective; and then step forward into whatever it takes to complete the task at hand.

Using this technique forces me to act with thought, not react in desperation. I make better choices when I remember to go through this simple process. It doesn’t always lead me to the best outcome, but I have a much better chance of doing the right things when I take that moment to consider the options first. I can stop the stress spiral, take control of my responses and provide better care for my husband. It’s a winning solution for both of us.