Just breathe. It sounds so simple, yet it can be difficult at times. Often when things get challenging, the first thing we do is hold our breath, increasing tension and stress. When faced with a challenge along your journey, focus on your breath. Breathing can help calm your nervous system and helps you relax.
Practice breathing. Take a deep, rich cleansing inhale through your nose. Then open your mouth and slowly exhale and let it all out. There are no special rules. Close your eyes if it helps. Count while breathing if it helps. Inhale for a count of 4, then hold your breath for a count of 4, take another sip of breath in, then exhale for a count of 7.
There are many resources to help you practice breathing. If you have an Apple watch there is a breathe button that will remind you to breathe during the day. Numerous apps exist that can help you work on your breathing as well.
When running I try to focus on my breath. It distracts me from focusing on a muscle that may hurt or the miles I still need to run. In addition to the emotional help, it helps me physically. It helps me settle in with a pace and get the oxygen I need to run well.
During an exam or oral argument in law school, remember not to hold your breath. Sometimes the simplest things are the first thing that we throw out the window when times are tough. So remind yourself. Breathe!