Just a reminder . . . When your stress level is rising, take a few minutes for a stress-reduction break!

When you have one minute:

Breathe in slowly and pause for a count of three. Exhale. Pause for a count of three. Repeat for one minute, pausing for a count of three after each inhalation and exhalation.

When you have two minutes:

Count down slowly from ten to zero. With each number, take one complete breath, inhaling and exhaling. For example, breathe in deeply, saying “ten” to yourself. Breathe out slowly. On your next breath, say “nine,” and so on. If you feel lightheaded, count down more slowly, spacing your breaths farther apart.

When you have three minutes:

While seated, take a break from whatever you’re doing. Check your body for tension. Relax your facial muscles. Allow your jaw to fall slightly open. Let your shoulders drop. Let your arms fall to your sides. Allow your hands to loosen so spaces show between your fingers. Uncross your legs or ankles. Feel your thighs sink into your chair, and let your legs rest comfortably. Sense your shins and calves becoming heavier. Let your feet grow roots into the floor. Now breathe in slowly and breathe out slowly.

Ahhhhhhh!