Leo sat on the edge of his bed, his heart drumming against his ribs like a trapped bird. Tomorrow was the big spelling bee, and every time he thought of the word "encyclopedia," his throat felt tight and his breaths became short, shallow gasps in his upper chest.
If you want to try Leo’s "mountain breathing," follow these steps to calm your nervous system: Belly Breathing [video] - American Lung Association
Grandpa sat down beside him. "You’re breathing with your shoulders, Leo. That’s 'scared breathing.' Let’s try 'mountain breathing' instead."
He guided Leo to lie flat on his back. "Imagine your belly is a big, colorful balloon," Grandpa said softly. "When you breathe in through your nose, don't let your chest move. Instead, try to blow up that balloon in your stomach."