Public Service Announcement

This is for Poppy's 1.2.3. challenge, to write a set of instructions in poem form. Details are here:

I know it’s hard, but breathe for me,

In for two, out for three,

In for three, out for four,

If you can, breath one beat more.

Feel the air draw in your nose,

Feel the ground beneath your toes,

Part your lips and blow it out,

Gently purse them, softly pout.

Now as you breathe, say in your head,

Or if you like, out loud instead,

“I am alright, though I feel manic,

This is normal, simply panic.

I thought that I was in a scrape,

And my body wants me to escape.

If I was fighting or busy flying,

I wouldn’t feel like I was dying.”

Now look around and tell to me

Five things that your eyes can see,

Four things that your ears can hear,

Can you name day, month and year?

Keep on breathing, nice and slow,

Let your brain and body know,

That though you know they do their best,

You’ve got this now, your heart can rest.

And if your thoughts keep grabbing hold,

Accept them, yes, but let’s be bold,

Think of something else instead,

List your favourite books you’ve read,

Or try some maths - your twelve times table,

Recite this poem, if you’re able!