Every Breath You Take
Take a deep breath and let the stress melt away! Here are 3 powerful tips to harness the calming magic of deep breathing, backed by science.
1. Practice diaphragmatic breathing
Place one hand on your abdomen, just below your ribcage, and inhale deeply through your nose. Feel your abdomen rise as you fill your lungs with air. Exhale slowly through your mouth, allowing your abdomen to fall. This technique helps engage the diaphragm and promotes deeper, more relaxed breathing. Inhale tranquility, exhale stress. Deep breathing activates the body’s relaxation response, lowering cortisol levels by up to 25%. By consciously inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth, you can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
2. Establish a rhythm
Set a steady rhythm for your breaths to help induce a calming effect. For example, try inhaling for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of four, and exhaling for a count of four. Adjust the count based on what feels comfortable for you. Oxygenate your brain and boost your focus. Deep breathing increases oxygen flow to the brain, enhancing concentration and mental clarity. Research shows that 10 minutes of focused breathing can improve attention and cognitive performance by 20%.
3. Find a quiet space
Seek out a peaceful environment where you can fully concentrate on your breathing without distractions. This can be a secluded corner of your home, a serene outdoor spot, or even a quiet room in your workplace.
Deep breathing cultivates self-awareness and self-control, crucial for keeping promises to ourselves. By practicing deep breaths whenever tempted to break commitments, we develop resilience and discipline, reinforcing our ability to honor our word and achieve personal goals.
Remember, it all starts with a simple breath.
Counting Cards
Shining a Spotlight on Our Volunteers
A heartfelt thank you to the amazing volunteers from Murray Ridge School, operated by the Lorain County Board of Developmental Disabilities! These students face the range of challenges that developmental disabilities create… but they still selflessly count and pack Promise Cards for our charity, offering motivation to those facing adversities around the world. The Murray Ridge School and because I said I would believe volunteerism fosters skills, self-esteem and accomplishment. We deeply appreciate these exceptional volunteers whose kindness and dedication do not go unnoticed. Thank you for showing your community what determination and compassion mean.
So far this year, we have distributed 206,590 Promise Cards to supporters around the world! Thank you to ALL of our volunteers and donors that make this possible.
Two Sizes Too Small? Not Anymore!
“Hello! I met [the Founder of because I said I would.] this past summer about 6 months into my weight loss journey. I bought a BISIW shirt, but I bought it in my goal size. I promised my family I would continue to get healthy, and I’m happy to say that I can comfortably wear my awesome shirt! So excited. Your mission has really had a positive impact on my life. Thank you for what you are doing.”
With the help of weight loss surgery, Mandy has lost 166 lbs. We are so proud of her progress and we are rooting for her as she continues to fight the good fight. Getting healthy is the first challenge and staying healthy is the second.
Do you have a promise story to share? Submit your story here.
Families in Bereavement
We weren’t able to reach them…
“I lost my parents tragically. A mental health crisis caused the whole situation and my parents succumbed to a murder/suicide. (I don’t like to use those words but it is the truth.) My husband discovered my parents after we weren’t able to reach them. I was there but this situation changed our lives greatly. We do have support but to have a few days to just be together and not have to worry about anything except helping each other would be an immense next step of healing.
The other component is that I want to continue to gain the tools to provide awareness for senior mental health. I want to continue to grieve in a healthy way and also provide a place for my husband to get continued support. We have attended counseling but right now our schedules and finances are not available to do so.”
We are looking for an individual or organization who might be willing to sponsor this family to allow them to come to Camp because I said I would at no cost to them. $1,500 would make this possible. You can read application excerpts from other families who are hoping to come to Camp here.