The 90-second Reset: My Way

When emotions flare up, I often just step outside and breathe. Nothing fancy. A bit of fresh air, a few deep breaths—and suddenly my nervous system starts to calm down.

Neuroanatomist Jill Bolte Taylor points out that the chemical surge of an emotion lasts about 90 seconds. After that, it’s our thoughts and mental replays that keep the feeling alive.

For me, those 90 seconds usually mean to shift my focus and practice a long Inhale, and longer exhale.

It doesn’t erase the emotion, but it gives it somewhere to land. That way, instead of spiraling, I get to take the control back, to choose what comes next.

This is my reset. What’s yours?

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https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2025/03/10/a-psychologist-shares-the-90-second-rule-to-survive-emotional-waves/