Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1417700
www.FredericksburgParent.NET 11 K RI S T I True, we may face another pandemic in years to come. But does that portend a dark fate, or have we learned something about how resilient we humans can be? Yes, many kids have had a less-than-desirable school experi- ence over the past 12 months. But could this gap in our children's education possibly be a chance for them to get off the hamster wheel of pushing through? I mean, what's the hurry? And have you ever lost a job? How often does that turn into something better? These are not minor issues. But a shift in perspective can turn setbacks into opportunities, while relieving suf- fering for everybody in your household. I would also encourage you to give your son a device to use when he feels himself ruminating about death and destruction. This simple, 3-step 'box breath' is extremely powerful at calming down the nervous system. It's quick, easy, portable, and nobody ever needs to know you're doing it. Here's how it works: 1. Take a slow, deep breath to the count of four. 2. Hold the breath in, also to the count of four. (Stay relaxed while suspending the breath—not that puffy-cheeked, nose-holding thing kids do when going underwater. Rather, simply don't breathe out for a moment.) 3. Slowly release the breath to the count of four. Try it. Right now. You'll be amazed at how relaxed you feel. Your son may need to use this device 20 times an hour when he first begins, but over time, just thinking about the box breath will prompt his system to chill out. And finally, keep in mind that although you might try to convince your son the world is NOT going to end, do we really know for sure what will happen next? Trying to control an outcome only offers temporary relief from anxiety. For a more sustained sense of wellbeing, one needs to come from a centered place, knowing deep down that no matter what, everything is as it should be. People spend a lifetime trying to find that eternal nug- get—through faith, centering practices, nature and many other sources. Seekers always find. Share your journey with your son, and perhaps you will discover in each other a companion to journey with—a hidden gem, bur- ied deep inside these crazy times we're living in. M A RY Kristi is on vacation this week.