#41 Stay relaxed
Basic, ages 2-18
Resource stacking occurs on a mental or psychological level. You can also manage pressure in a physical way. Physical centering means to restore a state of relaxation, alertness, and emotional balance. If you feel overwhelmed by stress, take a moment to find and release physical tension. Take a deep breath and sigh, smile to yourself, and release your muscle tension as you breathe out.

Example:
A toddler has a temper tantrum in a crowded shopping mall. Father feels himself becoming more and more angry about the child's behavior. Before losing control, he sighs deeply, physically relaxes, and tells himself, She's tired, time to go home. Relax. It will be all right.

Next: Tool 42