the third chapter of Don’t Stress It! advised, “by practicing deep breathing. Step one - close your eyes.” Silas checked to make sure Oona wasn’t around and closed his eyes. It wasn’t that she would make fun of him for it - she had given him the book, after all - but having her around would make him feel silly and self-conscious. Plus, if he was honest, he didn’t want her to think he was getting into all this kind of stuff. The next thing he knew she’d be inviting him to yoga classes and lecturing him on the benefits of positive thinking. Of course, with his eyes closed he realized he couldn’t read the next step. He opened one eye and peeked. “Step two - breathe slow and deep. In through the nose, out through the mouth.” Slow and deep. He closed his eyes. Sat up straight. In through the nose - or was it the mouth? He carried on anyway, concentrating on every breath. Slow and deep. Slow and deep. At that moment there was an almighty crash from the hallway. Silas jumped so high he thought his body must have left the seat entirely.
