Stephen Porges in “The Polyvagal Theory: New Insights into Adaptive Reactions of the Autonomic Nervous System,” in Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine 76, Suppl 2 (April 2009): S86–S90, and The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotion, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation, (New York, NY: W. He wants us to honor him in our prayers and be respectful, but he also wants us to tell us exactly how we feel and what’s on our minds, etc. So if you too seek the Word of God in your life, you know that only focusing on the truth will really set your mind free.

An ARC was provided to me by Netgalley, the publisher, and the author Jennifer Tucker for free in exchange for an honest review. For you to struggle with some of these things, it’s okay to reach out for help, whether that’s medical help or professional counseling help. I think of times when both of my daughters, in the middle of the night, would come to me terrified, afraid they had a bad dream, scared of something or when my daughter has a panic attack and she’s panicking over something.Using this technique for prayer seems so quick but the interesting thing is that it actually adds up throughout my day and deepens my relationship with God. Breathe in the Holy Spirit, and breathe out any anxieties or worries (Bill Gaultiere, "Breath Prayers”). Next, identify how you normally address God in prayer: Lord, Jesus, Holy One, Living Spirit, Eternal God? You will not only go into the problem better equipped, but 'the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus'. If you’re new to breath meditations or don’t like those particular techniques, feel free to use another.

This is the privilege of breath prayers, repeating with confidence to our loving Heavenly Father the truth of his living Word. I had never realized that before now, different breathing exercises don’t necessarily work for everyone; for my daughter in particular, when she focuses on her breathing, it makes her more anxious and conspires with her into panic.Think of a couple of short phrases of truth, repeat them under your breath God-ward as you prepare yourself. I’ve shifted how I see those verses, especially as I’ve walked through severe anxiety with my daughter.