We hear it all the time - deep breaths are a key way to relax, regulate our nervous system, and connect to the present. Sounds easy, right? Maybe not for everyone. If taking a deep, centering breath is not intuitive to you, try this visual to help you. I love this helpful image, which is perfect as we enter the cooler months...

Imagine you have a cup of hot cocoa in front of you, marshmallows and all. Now take a deep inhalation through your nose - taking in all the yummy smells of that cocoa. As you do that, you will feel your belly naturally rise. Hold the breath for a few counts. Now, as you release the breath, imagine you are cooling down the cocoa with your mouth. Purse your lips together and blow out, slowly, cooling down that heat. Repeat several times.

This is a hot cocoa breath. The next time you feel triggered, or anxious or just want to CALM DOWN, use the hot cocoa breath to get you there. Then pat yourself on the back and reward your work with a cup of the real thing .