I awoke on Saturday, to find a quiet, gentle blanket of snow over my neighborhood, Park Slope in Brooklyn! I felt joyful, reacting to a child within who delights in this first appearance of these cherished white flakes – a dusting of around an inch, according to my iPhone.
Most of my holiday shopping is done and I plan to have a cozy day with tea or a cup of decaf coffee. I’ll wrap presents and maybe take in a movie. This can be a stressful time with governmental uncertainty and world drama; I remind myself of the breathing technique I shared in my September 30th (2024) blog. I call it the 4.4.8. This strategy helps me tremendously!
Breathe in for 4 counts
Hold for 4 counts
Exhale for 4 counts
It’s helpful to create a block of time – 2 minutes. You can use the 4.4.8 for 2 minutes each day and then expand it to 3 minutes, and then 4 minutes daily. We breathe in oxygen and let go of carbon dioxide. When we exhale, we help to maintain pH levels in the blood. When we breathe deeply and rhythmically, we engage the parasympathetic nervous system to relax the sympathetic nervous system, thereby reducing stress, lowering blood pressure and the heartbeat. Proper breathing can enhance the immune system by increasing oxygenation and improving mental health (Google, 2024).
As I promised, here is a link to my recorded broadcasts on TalkRadioNYC. You may remember that the show title is “The A Train to Sedona” – the same name as my memoir that was published in August of 2023.
https://www.talkradio.nyc/shows/the-a-train-to-sedona
On December 17 I also shared a video on Facebook about my challenge during a trip to the post office. You may relate to the experience, the testing of patience and calm…when there is so much to accomplish.
https://www.facebook.com/linda.marsanico
I wish you a Happy and Healthy Holiday,
Peace, Light & Love,
Linda
ttps://www.talkradio.nyc/shows/the-a-train-to-sedona
PS: Take a look at my recorded shows from TalkRadioNYC!
