Many of us grew up in homes where the "emotional weather" was unpredictable. To stay safe, you might have learned to become very still—tightening your muscles or holding your breath to avoid being noticed. Even years later, your body might still be bracing for a storm that isn't there, keeping you in a state of constant, quiet tension.
The Practice: Next time you feel that familiar hum of background anxiety, try not to "fix" it. Instead, just notice your ribs and belly. Are you holding your breath "up high" in your chest? Gently place a hand on your heart or stomach and simply acknowledge the tightness: "I see you, I’m safe now." Try to let your exhale be just one second longer than your inhale. This tiny shift signals to your nervous system that you no longer have to hide; you are allowed to breathe and take up space.
The Practice: Next time you feel that familiar hum of background anxiety, try not to "fix" it. Instead, just notice your ribs and belly. Are you holding your breath "up high" in your chest? Gently place a hand on your heart or stomach and simply acknowledge the tightness: "I see you, I’m safe now." Try to let your exhale be just one second longer than your inhale. This tiny shift signals to your nervous system that you no longer have to hide; you are allowed to breathe and take up space.
