Breathe. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.

This time of year has the capacity to make us feel as though we are being pulled along as though decisions concerning our time and activities have been made for us, leaving us only to show up and move on to the next event. This year, the hurricane and response combined with the election have increased the pressure on our time and consciousness.

In times like these, it can be important to remember that we need to breathe – not that we can survive if we do not. However, there is something about just taking a moment to concentrate on our breathing that helps to refocus our ability to be intentional with our breathing. And if we can be intentional with our breathing, we can be intentional with decisions around our time. And if we can be intentional with decisions about our time, then we can be intentional with our daily comings and goings.

“Be still, and know that I am God!” writes the Psalmist. Be still. Be. Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.

When the world around you begins (or continues) to push for more of your time, to pressure you to act, to consume your consciousness, take a moment to breathe. Focus on your breathing. Think on these words from Psalm 46. Be still before God.

Breathe and choose to be intentional with your time, with your energy, with your life.

Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.