Baby Steps - Part 2: The First Two Steps

“What does deep breathing have to do with a stubbed toe?” asked Luke.  “I know exactly what to do. I’m a professional! It’s called ‘belly breathing’. I try this when I’m feeling down and out, and you should try it too. First, put your hands on your belly.” Luke lifted up his T-shirt and did as he was told. I giggled over this, then said “Now, breathe in…” We breathed in slowly. “..and slowly breathe out.” We breathed out. “Let’s try it a few more times.” “How many times did we do it? Three times! Yes, three! Even Resus and Cleo joined in, and Cleo was an expert on this whole belly breathing thing. “Wow, Cleo!” I cried, “How did you learn to master such belly breathing?” asked Resus. “By sniffing in traditional Egyptian aromatherapy. These included lotus flowers and roses.” “Do you feel relaxed and calm now, Luke?” I asked. “Hmmmm…” Luke brightened. “Actually, yes, I do!” “Then onto Test 2.” I announced, ticking off the first item on my clipboard.

Test 2:

Plenty of rest.

Cleo was fanning Luke with a huge palm leaf as Luke snuggled down in bed, his stubbed foot on a pillow. “That’s it, Cleo, keep fanning. Slowly and gently.” Luke sighed softly. “Rest will do you good, Luke, if you’ve had a big angry fit over a toe then plenty of rest is what you need.” Resus came in holding a bowlful of chocolates. “I’ve brought you your favourite chocolates, Luke. Milk chocolate with a little cream-filled centre.” “Yummy!” shouted Luke, and partially transforming his mouth and nose into a werewolf snout, he began to dig in. I looked confused. “Are you sure he’s meant to eat this much chocolate?” I asked. “When you rest, you can order whatever you want. This is called ‘real room service’.” explained Resus. After eating most of the chocolate in the bowl, Luke yawned and lay down, feeling very pleased with himself. “What do you want now, Luke?” I asked. “Pizza and orange juice. It always cheers me up, especially when we go to the local pizza place in town.”