Corri, Actually I do know too well about the breathing thing. I have suffered from asthma on occasion (allergies), and when it is bad all of my being is concentrated on breathing and avoiding panic. It is about the most terrifying thing you can imagine.
I think I know what you mean, and I think I've been there before. When not there, it is hard to find the lever to start the transition. Once there it is obvious, but now I can't remember where it was. Then again, maybe I'm clueless.
