Stay With The Breath

 Yesterday I met with our landlord to discuss a 3 day eviction notice we had received a couple days before. Before arriving I went through the various scenarios that came to mind. I chose before hand the points I wanted to make starting with how grateful we are to have the pains and pleasures of living there. As the conversation began I noticed within me excitement and a raised tone of voice. I stopped for a brief moment and out loud suggested that I calm myself with a subtle breath and a "take it easy". The conversation continued and we both came to a resolution, I am grateful mostly for the daily practice of centering prayer that works in many ways. In Gratitude, Jim

 Breath is related to everything-though not always noticeable-its rhythm would have also changed with your prayer and mantra.

 
Yes, true. And it's better for me to find an indirect way to slow and be mindful, like mantra, etc. Savoring the smell of a flower or nice lotion is grounding too without directly being about breath.