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Breathing Room: Letting Go So You Can Fully Live
Leeana Tankersley, like so many of us, began to feel overwhelmed by life. And like so many of us, she assumed she was struggling not because life is inherently difficult but because she was personally failing in some way. She knows firsthand what it is to bully yourself, to put yourself down for not being able to keep it all together, to compare yourself to others and find yourself lacking. But she's also discovered that all of the hurt and hostility and pain only add up to a life of holding your breath. What if we could exhale and let go?
Breathing Room is her beautiful release of self-condemnation, her discovery of the rest that comes when we give ourselves some space to breathe. She draws readers in through shared experiences of perfectionism, jealousy, and striving and shows them how to let go, how to be radically on their own team, and how to experience the broad grace that Christ has offered all of us.
Anyone who has been trying to do it all, who has been putting on a strong front and yet secretly struggling, will find in Breathing Room both a trusted friend and a generous Savior.
Breathing Room is her beautiful release of self-condemnation, her discovery of the rest that comes when we give ourselves some space to breathe. She draws readers in through shared experiences of perfectionism, jealousy, and striving and shows them how to let go, how to be radically on their own team, and how to experience the broad grace that Christ has offered all of us.
Anyone who has been trying to do it all, who has been putting on a strong front and yet secretly struggling, will find in Breathing Room both a trusted friend and a generous Savior.
220 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2014
32 people are currently reading
902 people want to read
About the author
Leeana Tankersley
10 books132 followersLeeana Tankersley is the author of Breathing Room and holds English degrees from Liberty University and West Virginia University. She and her husband, Steve, are currently stationed in San Diego, California, with their three children: Luke, Lane, and Elle. Leeana writes about living from the spacious place on her blog, www.leeanatankersley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 22, 2018
My heart appreciates this book, big time. I've always had trouble with things feeling hard when I have a "good life." As if I have no right to feel sad, burdened, what have you, because nothing should be wrong. Life is hard, and Tankersley asserts that giving oneself permission to lean into the hard things, while still appreciating life's goodness, is not only doable, but life-changing. She is vulnerable with her struggles and invites the reader to be vulnerable with themselves as well. I was uplifted by this book every time I read it and several times felt I read a particular passage at just the time I needed to read it. She does refer to scripture, but also other things, so if you're looking for a Bible study or a general devotional, Breathing Room is not that. It is, however, one woman's experience, that invites others to unburden themselves with keeping it all together and to accept God's grace on a daily basis and never tire of accepting it. Instead, it should be a way of living more fully and more present in your own life.
I'm sorry that I'm just now reading another book by this author, as her first book, Found Art, was also a great encouragement to read while my husband (then fiance) was deployed. I hope to read her newer releases sooner rather than later.
I'm sorry that I'm just now reading another book by this author, as her first book, Found Art, was also a great encouragement to read while my husband (then fiance) was deployed. I hope to read her newer releases sooner rather than later.
March 22, 2015
Wonderfully honest, Leeana does not pretend to "have it all together". This book is very refreshing in that it is not a book about improving yourself in some way or striving for perfection (like so many books are these days!) but promotes a gentle attitude towards oneself. Encouragement, that is how I would sum it up. Something one will perhaps dip into again, now and then.
February 21, 2023
Beautiful and lovely. Tankersley takes the reader through her own struggled in a way that resonates with my spirit and draws me closer to God. And the writing is gorgeous.
July 26, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
In Breathing Room, Leeana Tankersley writes about the hard times in life when it becomes metaphorically hard to breathe and the importance of making space to both inhale and exhale. Honestly and vulnerably, Tankersley addresses her personal struggles in the midst of her blessed life and how she worked to overcome and let go. Breathing Room is well-written, real and applicable, with added moments of lighthearted humor. Inspirational and encouraging, Breathing Room is definitely a beneficial read.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of Breathing Room and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
In Breathing Room, Leeana Tankersley writes about the hard times in life when it becomes metaphorically hard to breathe and the importance of making space to both inhale and exhale. Honestly and vulnerably, Tankersley addresses her personal struggles in the midst of her blessed life and how she worked to overcome and let go. Breathing Room is well-written, real and applicable, with added moments of lighthearted humor. Inspirational and encouraging, Breathing Room is definitely a beneficial read.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of Breathing Room and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 8, 2015
I’m thankful for the review copy of a book that introduced me to Leeana Tankersky who is transparent, real, and gives practical ways for us to address the things that have us bound, and breathless. She says, “Breathing room was available when and only when – “I faced the very thing I didn’t want to face…I could no longer dismiss or override what I was feeling…I wasn’t doing well. This was a personal abandonment, a betrayal. We know it’s not ok to bully other people, but somehow we forgot – or never learned that it’s not ok to bully ourselves.”
Wow, so true. Between the media telling us how we should look and feel, our peer group telling us how to act and feel; it was refreshing to hear of this authors personal journey into walking out what God says we are and looking to how He sees us. It’s powerful, and moving. I liked how this author bears her soul and reveals how she reached the point to where she was willing to do anything to be free! It wasn’t easy. But with Gods help all things are possible.
She tells readers how to listen to the voice of God and how to scatter the voice of the enemy of our soul. She says, “The toxic voice is the dark voice of scarcity, while God’s voice is the voice of abundance. The toxic voices tell us there will never been enough. There is only so much talent and achievement in the universe, so we must prove ourselves worthy of a portion constantly. …The brain vultures are just waiting for a trigger moment. You know, a moment that confirms all our suspicions about ourselves. That we are never, and I mean ever, going to get our fit right. That we are never going to be happy. That if we were one of the prettier people, we would be able to do life so much better. That our struggle is an indication of a deficiency. That we can’t keep up. That we’re destined for the bench while everyone else is enjoying the game.”
I was so encouraged by this author. Loved how she helped identify self-talk that is destructive to our soul and well being. It feels strange to give ourselves a pep talk and speak the truth to ourselves at first but I have been so encouraged by her letter at the end; truths she spoke over herself; I can now see how the truth sets the captives free. She says, “One of the common methods for making amends is writing the offended party a letter. I decided, as a gesture of grace and acceptance, to write a letter of amends to myself.” She starts the letter liked this “Dear Leeana; I want to do things differently. This letter is my way of saying I’m sorry for being so hard on you, for simply assuming everyone else knew better….(she says a lot and further says)"
"I’m sorry I didn’t listen to you. I’m listening now. Today is a new day. Today, I want more…….I want you to dance, for God’s sake. Wild and Free. I want you to give without the fear of losing……..I want you to stop running and breathe. I want you to believe……..I believe in you. Your ability to heal and become. I believe in your ability to hold on to what matters and let go of what doesn’t. I believe you will survive even if it’s not all perfect.”
She continues likes this until the end. I found myself teary eyed as I read. I realized that the Lord believes these things about me too! I prayed Oh, God help my unbelief. Help me to accept and believe these things you know about me I find hard to believe. It’s encouraging and healing to my soul to know the Lord loves me and thinks the best about me! I highly recommend this book; it’s a must read for everyone.
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Wow, so true. Between the media telling us how we should look and feel, our peer group telling us how to act and feel; it was refreshing to hear of this authors personal journey into walking out what God says we are and looking to how He sees us. It’s powerful, and moving. I liked how this author bears her soul and reveals how she reached the point to where she was willing to do anything to be free! It wasn’t easy. But with Gods help all things are possible.
She tells readers how to listen to the voice of God and how to scatter the voice of the enemy of our soul. She says, “The toxic voice is the dark voice of scarcity, while God’s voice is the voice of abundance. The toxic voices tell us there will never been enough. There is only so much talent and achievement in the universe, so we must prove ourselves worthy of a portion constantly. …The brain vultures are just waiting for a trigger moment. You know, a moment that confirms all our suspicions about ourselves. That we are never, and I mean ever, going to get our fit right. That we are never going to be happy. That if we were one of the prettier people, we would be able to do life so much better. That our struggle is an indication of a deficiency. That we can’t keep up. That we’re destined for the bench while everyone else is enjoying the game.”
I was so encouraged by this author. Loved how she helped identify self-talk that is destructive to our soul and well being. It feels strange to give ourselves a pep talk and speak the truth to ourselves at first but I have been so encouraged by her letter at the end; truths she spoke over herself; I can now see how the truth sets the captives free. She says, “One of the common methods for making amends is writing the offended party a letter. I decided, as a gesture of grace and acceptance, to write a letter of amends to myself.” She starts the letter liked this “Dear Leeana; I want to do things differently. This letter is my way of saying I’m sorry for being so hard on you, for simply assuming everyone else knew better….(she says a lot and further says)"
"I’m sorry I didn’t listen to you. I’m listening now. Today is a new day. Today, I want more…….I want you to dance, for God’s sake. Wild and Free. I want you to give without the fear of losing……..I want you to stop running and breathe. I want you to believe……..I believe in you. Your ability to heal and become. I believe in your ability to hold on to what matters and let go of what doesn’t. I believe you will survive even if it’s not all perfect.”
She continues likes this until the end. I found myself teary eyed as I read. I realized that the Lord believes these things about me too! I prayed Oh, God help my unbelief. Help me to accept and believe these things you know about me I find hard to believe. It’s encouraging and healing to my soul to know the Lord loves me and thinks the best about me! I highly recommend this book; it’s a must read for everyone.
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
December 1, 2014
Every once in awhile a book comes along that is truly exceptional. A perfect rating does not seem like a good enough way to commend the author. Every once in awhile a book comes along that has the reader talking back to the book while reading it; maybe with replies of, “Amen! Absolutely! Finally, someone understands!” Every once awhile a book comes along and makes the reader feel like they are meeting one on one with the author. Breathing Room is that book.
Often Christian books are encouraging but not always understanding. They provide an encouraging word but rarely have I found, as a reader, that they truly speak about the suffering in such a way that does not minimize it or gloss over it. Rather, Leanna Tankersley gets in the knee deep pain right along with the reader.
Breathing Room speaks wonderfully to women in many stages of life -- from a new mother to a matured wife to a new believer. With quotes from many different areas, Leanna Tankersley applies literature and wisdom to each chapter with practical understanding from real life experiences. I loved when she spoke about homesickness, being overwhelmed and just needing to breathe. She uses scripture throughout the book as well as stories from The Bible and gives them real life application.
There are so many great quotes from this book and I wish I could list them all but a few of my favorites are:
In a section where Mrs. Tankersley tells a story of Stephen King, she talks about stealing time away, “Carve out a corner in this world, steal some time like Stephen King, and get to work. The world is waiting for you. Yes, small little everyday you. Yes, you, Worthy old you.” (pg. 96)
Mrs. Tankersley is speaking of Jesus healing the woman with the issue of blood and she states, “Jesus is so good like that. Saving the one. Even if, especially if, that one has been discarded by everyone else.” (pg. 116)
“When it was time to pull things together, I could make it work. I could be as high functioning as needed, actually. But so little came from a place of ease or centeredness. My living – and this has been true of me for as long as I can remember – almost always originated out of a place of stress and striving. I rarely felt comfortable in my own skin.” (pg. 146)
To say I enjoyed Breathing Room is such an understatement. It is a book that I will keep on my bookshelves and one I’ll gladly share. It’s a book that is applicable to every age group and one that moved me beyond words and into a new area of acceptance. I recommend it, I loved it and in a rating system of five stars for the best book, I’d give it 10.
I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
Often Christian books are encouraging but not always understanding. They provide an encouraging word but rarely have I found, as a reader, that they truly speak about the suffering in such a way that does not minimize it or gloss over it. Rather, Leanna Tankersley gets in the knee deep pain right along with the reader.
Breathing Room speaks wonderfully to women in many stages of life -- from a new mother to a matured wife to a new believer. With quotes from many different areas, Leanna Tankersley applies literature and wisdom to each chapter with practical understanding from real life experiences. I loved when she spoke about homesickness, being overwhelmed and just needing to breathe. She uses scripture throughout the book as well as stories from The Bible and gives them real life application.
There are so many great quotes from this book and I wish I could list them all but a few of my favorites are:
In a section where Mrs. Tankersley tells a story of Stephen King, she talks about stealing time away, “Carve out a corner in this world, steal some time like Stephen King, and get to work. The world is waiting for you. Yes, small little everyday you. Yes, you, Worthy old you.” (pg. 96)
Mrs. Tankersley is speaking of Jesus healing the woman with the issue of blood and she states, “Jesus is so good like that. Saving the one. Even if, especially if, that one has been discarded by everyone else.” (pg. 116)
“When it was time to pull things together, I could make it work. I could be as high functioning as needed, actually. But so little came from a place of ease or centeredness. My living – and this has been true of me for as long as I can remember – almost always originated out of a place of stress and striving. I rarely felt comfortable in my own skin.” (pg. 146)
To say I enjoyed Breathing Room is such an understatement. It is a book that I will keep on my bookshelves and one I’ll gladly share. It’s a book that is applicable to every age group and one that moved me beyond words and into a new area of acceptance. I recommend it, I loved it and in a rating system of five stars for the best book, I’d give it 10.
I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 14, 2014
Too often I have approached life’s crises and frustrations like a Sumo wrestler. I am going to overcome whatever I face and continue to juggle all the plates of responsibility in my life. Of course it never worked that way and I resorted to accusing myself of being a substandard Christian, wife, mother, pastor’s wife. In reality, my view was not . . . well reality! I was doing it in my own strength and leaving Christ out! Without Him I can do nothing!
This book helped me look back in the past, in the present and the future, take a deep full breath, and exhale. It shed light on the fact that I am sometimes my own worst enemy. The devil doesn’t have to do a thing because I will take the stick of guilt and failure and beat myself! Add to that the extra challenges we face and life can literally squeeze the breath out of us . . if we let it. By not stepping back and letting go, we not only devastate ourselves but we also drag all that baggage into the next day, and the next until we are so overwhelmed we feel like we are suffocating.
I appreciate Ms. Tankersley’s being so open, transparent, and vulnerable in sharing her story. Not that I want anyone to have problems but hearing that someone else struggles makes me feel not as alone. In old movies when the woman got hysterical, someone would slap her across the face to get her attention. I guess you could say her book was a good slap in the face. It made me step back, yes breath, and really look at what I have done. Best of all she helped me turn everything back to God. To realize the love and help He is waiting to give me. He is my strength and solution. Sometimes we are so caught up in our “moments” that we need someone to remind us of the Truth. The scripture than came to mind, that sums up the authors message is 2 Chronicles 20:17. Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you.
I received this book free from Revell Publishing, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
This book helped me look back in the past, in the present and the future, take a deep full breath, and exhale. It shed light on the fact that I am sometimes my own worst enemy. The devil doesn’t have to do a thing because I will take the stick of guilt and failure and beat myself! Add to that the extra challenges we face and life can literally squeeze the breath out of us . . if we let it. By not stepping back and letting go, we not only devastate ourselves but we also drag all that baggage into the next day, and the next until we are so overwhelmed we feel like we are suffocating.
I appreciate Ms. Tankersley’s being so open, transparent, and vulnerable in sharing her story. Not that I want anyone to have problems but hearing that someone else struggles makes me feel not as alone. In old movies when the woman got hysterical, someone would slap her across the face to get her attention. I guess you could say her book was a good slap in the face. It made me step back, yes breath, and really look at what I have done. Best of all she helped me turn everything back to God. To realize the love and help He is waiting to give me. He is my strength and solution. Sometimes we are so caught up in our “moments” that we need someone to remind us of the Truth. The scripture than came to mind, that sums up the authors message is 2 Chronicles 20:17. Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you.
I received this book free from Revell Publishing, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 6, 2014
I adored this book. Leeana Tankersley goes out on a limb (a whole tree of them, actually) in sharing her most vulnerable spots with us, and the raw emotion surrounding them. True to its title, reading Breathing Room really did fill my lungs with air and encourage me to calm down, slow down, and to not be so unreasonably hard on myself for feeling stress though my life is full of blessings. I love this quote from early on in the book: "Let's talk about how we are both blessed and struggling.Struggle and gratitude are not two ends of a dichotomy. In God's world, they can simultaneously co-exist."
Leeana's voice is uniquely engaging, and by allowing us into her struggles, she allows us to explore our own, through the lens of God's love for us. I found Breathing Room to be refreshing and life-giving.
Leeana's voice is uniquely engaging, and by allowing us into her struggles, she allows us to explore our own, through the lens of God's love for us. I found Breathing Room to be refreshing and life-giving.
September 29, 2015
This was an okay book and I liked it somewhat. Maybe I'm not the target audience for it, since I'm not a mom, because I didn't get a whole lot out of this. Even so, I'm glad I read it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
June 10, 2023
PRELUDE: Struggling and gratitude are not two ends of a dichotomy. In God’s world, they can simultaneously coexist.
CHAPTER 2 Dr. Seuss quote: “I’m afraid that sometimes you’ll play lonely games too; games you can’t win ‘cause you’ll play against you.” Let go of the lies on the exhale, so we can take in the truth on the inhale.
CHAPTER 6: The times when we have the least capacity to let others in is precisely the times when we need to open ourselves up the most… Letting others in is a better way to live, even though it requires bringing down our defenses and allowing for the possibility that being seen and being known might be more meaningful than being in control.
CHAPTER 7: If you can’t breathe, stop. Never move or act out of that place. Wait until you can breathe. FEAR = Frantic Efforts to Appear Recovered
CHAPTER 14 …”staying in the closed loop of my own mind is a doomed strategy” To the extent that I am unwilling to admit my own neediness, to that same extent I will not be able to experience the mutuality and interdependence of community. Community is the mutuality of needs expressed and needs met. Reaching out is one moment that gives us something to build on, the moment that interrupts our toxic trajectory and creates a momentum of health. Think of my inner child - she doesn’t need scolded for being ill. She’s not an inconvenience; she is a child in need.
CHAPTER 15 Comfort does not come to those intent on coping. The comfort arrives on those who are willing to spill open. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. If we allow ourselves the time and space to mourn, we will be comforted. On the other hand, if we believe we must suck it up and cope and steel ourselves against the loss, the comfort will be much harder to come by.
CHAPTER 16 One of the ways we can be there for ourselves like we would a friend is to be gentle when things are difficult. We chant our way through the panic instead of punishing. We wait for the panic to subside. We ask Christ to be our Company Keeper while we wait. Maybe nothing changes ‘out there,’ but having a strategy for coping with the panic can certainly change things ‘in here.’
CHAPTER 20 It’s easy for us to get so worn down that all we see are the impediments. Life is actually so much more about the process than the product. We honor ourselves by getting to work even when -especially when- the opposition is rising up out of thin air.
CHAPTER 2 Dr. Seuss quote: “I’m afraid that sometimes you’ll play lonely games too; games you can’t win ‘cause you’ll play against you.” Let go of the lies on the exhale, so we can take in the truth on the inhale.
CHAPTER 6: The times when we have the least capacity to let others in is precisely the times when we need to open ourselves up the most… Letting others in is a better way to live, even though it requires bringing down our defenses and allowing for the possibility that being seen and being known might be more meaningful than being in control.
CHAPTER 7: If you can’t breathe, stop. Never move or act out of that place. Wait until you can breathe. FEAR = Frantic Efforts to Appear Recovered
CHAPTER 14 …”staying in the closed loop of my own mind is a doomed strategy” To the extent that I am unwilling to admit my own neediness, to that same extent I will not be able to experience the mutuality and interdependence of community. Community is the mutuality of needs expressed and needs met. Reaching out is one moment that gives us something to build on, the moment that interrupts our toxic trajectory and creates a momentum of health. Think of my inner child - she doesn’t need scolded for being ill. She’s not an inconvenience; she is a child in need.
CHAPTER 15 Comfort does not come to those intent on coping. The comfort arrives on those who are willing to spill open. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. If we allow ourselves the time and space to mourn, we will be comforted. On the other hand, if we believe we must suck it up and cope and steel ourselves against the loss, the comfort will be much harder to come by.
CHAPTER 16 One of the ways we can be there for ourselves like we would a friend is to be gentle when things are difficult. We chant our way through the panic instead of punishing. We wait for the panic to subside. We ask Christ to be our Company Keeper while we wait. Maybe nothing changes ‘out there,’ but having a strategy for coping with the panic can certainly change things ‘in here.’
CHAPTER 20 It’s easy for us to get so worn down that all we see are the impediments. Life is actually so much more about the process than the product. We honor ourselves by getting to work even when -especially when- the opposition is rising up out of thin air.
January 19, 2018
I wanted to say thank you for a copy of a beautifully written book that was presented to me at the moment I most needed to hear the words. I was in the depth of a major depression that took two years to clear and equally as long to read the book because of it - I couldn't retain information. It offered a sanctuary from oppressive negative thoughts, practical ideas, and a "me too" feeling that allowed me to feel normal and okay. Thank you.
May 20, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this book!!! She is a gifted storyteller with deep meaning that I could relate to, even though her circumstances and stage of life are different than mine. I underlined so many meaningful thoughts that drew me closer to Jesus. I am sad to have this book end and will definitely be reading more of her writing.
July 30, 2017
I'm such a fan of this memoir-sheesh- it's gorgeous and honest. I wish for a better word than honest because there are so many layers of it that this author made me understand better, with gaping pulsing hope. Read this book with your favorite colored gel pen handy.
March 11, 2018
This is one of the best books I have ever read. Seriously, life changing! No matter what you are going through in life or maybe you just feel like you are going through the motions, you can take something away from this book!
August 7, 2018
I love this book and the fresh perspectives it offers in terms of finding God in the ordinary and every day life. It's authentic and at the same time, because of the writer's location (where most of her stories were based), there is an air of mystery that just makes me want to continue reading.
June 4, 2019
I read Begin Again by her last year and thought on it all through the spring and summer months. A book I was reading referenced this book so I ordered it remembering how much I liked her style... but I would recommend 5/5 Begin Again over this one👍🏼
March 25, 2021
I read this one chapter at a time, and I’m already looking forward to rereading it. This is a book that spoke my language—processed life and being human and loving Jesus in words that made sense to me. I feel calmer after reading it and I feel challenged to continue on.
May 24, 2018
Beautifully written. Encouraging. Inspiring.
July 11, 2018
Not into the self help books but she had a few good points towards the end of the book.
November 23, 2020
2.5 stars
March 10, 2017
some really strong points and heartfelt stories here. I recommend reading it over time as individual stories, not cover to cover like i did b/c some parts got repetitive, but it is probably related to how I consumed it.
December 1, 2014
Review Title: Let Go: Breathe the Freshness of Life (review of Breathing Room by Leeana Tankersley)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
***** 5 Stars
This book is about modern life in the fast lane, slow lane, and off the road while trying to find the right lane so that one can sail and enjoy the beauty God put into the world for us to enjoy along the way. I really appreciated the author's perspective on what helps those who have for one reason or another been sidelined and feel so overwhelmed by circumstances that the breath gets knocked out of them.
The author certainly had circumstances galore that would overwhelm even the most hardy among us. She found herself in the no win competition of looking at what others have, and at their glued on smiles that make them look like they are in the smooth sailing lane. Leeana is transparent with details of how crazed life can get, and how people need time not only to physcially transition between new living places but also even more time to get the mental in sync with the physical transition. I have never seen that thought treated with such respect by any other writer.
Toward the end of the book I found these passages particularily helpful:
"How might our anxiety levels and our toxic thinking change if we were to see ourselves as experiencers and not require ourselves to be experts?" (pg.178)
"Being a companion to ourselves means we don't have to fix it or figure it out. Instead, we can flex. Take the next step. More will be revealed. We can pray to God to help us tolerate the waiting and the seeming lack of control, to help us focus on what we can control, which is how we treat ourselves in the middle of the uncertainty." (pg. 179)
I believe this book will appeal more to younger women rather than older women because of references made to things younger women will be more familar with such as certain authors and yoga pants, etc. I think it has appeal for the Christians as well as seekers. I think of this as perhaps a gateway book for those needing help to find a better way to do life who are open to considering God as a source of help. Other books and authors can take people deeper with God, but this book opens the door for some who are outside and knocking on the door for help.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review after reading it. Many people will potentially be helped by reading this book. I am thankful I had the opportunity to journey with this author through some overwhelming experiences to see what brought her through to abundant life and breath.
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
***** 5 Stars
This book is about modern life in the fast lane, slow lane, and off the road while trying to find the right lane so that one can sail and enjoy the beauty God put into the world for us to enjoy along the way. I really appreciated the author's perspective on what helps those who have for one reason or another been sidelined and feel so overwhelmed by circumstances that the breath gets knocked out of them.
The author certainly had circumstances galore that would overwhelm even the most hardy among us. She found herself in the no win competition of looking at what others have, and at their glued on smiles that make them look like they are in the smooth sailing lane. Leeana is transparent with details of how crazed life can get, and how people need time not only to physcially transition between new living places but also even more time to get the mental in sync with the physical transition. I have never seen that thought treated with such respect by any other writer.
Toward the end of the book I found these passages particularily helpful:
"How might our anxiety levels and our toxic thinking change if we were to see ourselves as experiencers and not require ourselves to be experts?" (pg.178)
"Being a companion to ourselves means we don't have to fix it or figure it out. Instead, we can flex. Take the next step. More will be revealed. We can pray to God to help us tolerate the waiting and the seeming lack of control, to help us focus on what we can control, which is how we treat ourselves in the middle of the uncertainty." (pg. 179)
I believe this book will appeal more to younger women rather than older women because of references made to things younger women will be more familar with such as certain authors and yoga pants, etc. I think it has appeal for the Christians as well as seekers. I think of this as perhaps a gateway book for those needing help to find a better way to do life who are open to considering God as a source of help. Other books and authors can take people deeper with God, but this book opens the door for some who are outside and knocking on the door for help.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review after reading it. Many people will potentially be helped by reading this book. I am thankful I had the opportunity to journey with this author through some overwhelming experiences to see what brought her through to abundant life and breath.
October 8, 2014
“AN INVITATION TO BREATHE. Catastrophe or no catastrophe, if you are unhinged, disoriented, suffocating, or otherwise generally dragging, I'm inviting you to pull up a chair at this table . . .
Breathing Room is a beautiful release of self-condemnation, a discovery of the rest that comes when we offer ourselves some space to breathe. Vulnerable and winsome, Leeana Tankersley shows you how to stop beating yourself up, how to be radically on your own team, and how to truly experience grace. If you've been putting on a strong front and yet are secretly coming apart, you'll find in these pages a trusted friend.”
On the surface, Breathing Room wonderfully written book -written by a young, overwhelmed mom – and her need to learn how to wake up every morning and hold on for whatever is coming her way and to just breathe through her life. This is her story, but though I am not a young, overwhelmed mom and I found myself within her story. I got it… and she gets it.
Life can grab us by the throat and never let go. It can drag us down to a place that feels like there is nowhere to go… not even Up. And then there is the secret (page 48). The secret is to get up every morning and, with intention, step into the broad grace we have been offered for this mercies-are-new-day. And then do it again tomorrow. We don’t get over being human. We don’t arrive. We don’t reach mastery. We don’t graduate in any way. We show up and participate day after day. (Emphasis mine)
Be prepared, once you begin reading this story… it will not let you go until you have read and savored every word and let its’ peace permeate down into your own life. Thank you Ms. Tankersley for sharing your story with us.
About the author: Leeana Tankersley holds English degrees from Liberty University and West Virginia University. She and her Navy SEAL husband, Steve, are currently stationed in San Diego, California, with their three children: Luke, Lane, and Elle. Leeana writes about living from the spacious place on her blog, www.leeanatankersley.com.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
Breathing Room is a beautiful release of self-condemnation, a discovery of the rest that comes when we offer ourselves some space to breathe. Vulnerable and winsome, Leeana Tankersley shows you how to stop beating yourself up, how to be radically on your own team, and how to truly experience grace. If you've been putting on a strong front and yet are secretly coming apart, you'll find in these pages a trusted friend.”
On the surface, Breathing Room wonderfully written book -written by a young, overwhelmed mom – and her need to learn how to wake up every morning and hold on for whatever is coming her way and to just breathe through her life. This is her story, but though I am not a young, overwhelmed mom and I found myself within her story. I got it… and she gets it.
Life can grab us by the throat and never let go. It can drag us down to a place that feels like there is nowhere to go… not even Up. And then there is the secret (page 48). The secret is to get up every morning and, with intention, step into the broad grace we have been offered for this mercies-are-new-day. And then do it again tomorrow. We don’t get over being human. We don’t arrive. We don’t reach mastery. We don’t graduate in any way. We show up and participate day after day. (Emphasis mine)
Be prepared, once you begin reading this story… it will not let you go until you have read and savored every word and let its’ peace permeate down into your own life. Thank you Ms. Tankersley for sharing your story with us.
About the author: Leeana Tankersley holds English degrees from Liberty University and West Virginia University. She and her Navy SEAL husband, Steve, are currently stationed in San Diego, California, with their three children: Luke, Lane, and Elle. Leeana writes about living from the spacious place on her blog, www.leeanatankersley.com.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
October 10, 2014
About the Book:
Leeana Tankersley, like so many of us, began to feel overwhelmed by life. And like so many of us, she assumed she was struggling not because life is inherently difficult but because she was personally failing in some way. She knows firsthand what it is to bully yourself, to put yourself down for not being able to keep it all together, to compare yourself to others and find yourself lacking. But she's also discovered that all of the hurt and hostility and pain only add up to a life of holding your breath. What if we could exhale and let go?
About the Author:
Leeana Tankersley holds English degrees from Liberty University and West Virginia University. She and her Navy SEAL husband, Steve, are currently stationed in San Diego, California, with their three children: Luke, Lane, and Elle. Leeana writes about living from the spacious place on her blog, www.leeanatankersley.com.
My Review:
This book written by a woman that herself had come to her critical line when the life around her terrified her to her core inspires us to reach for God for help through the madness. She had become overwhelmed with her life. It wasn't that she was leading a life that was miserable to her, just one that had been engulfed with stress that was beyond her level of enduring---so she in a sense had reached her end with it. Breathing Room, is about the guilt and shame of self condemnation and how to reach up to the Lord for a much needed rescue from life and from the terrible nagging thoughts that plague our minds in those times where we berate ourselves for just simply existing.
I enjoyed the book and the authors quirkiness about life, she definitely has a sense of humor. But she also has a sense of "realness" that is very refreshing. I also liked her rawness because sometimes you have to get down in the mud and choose to fight instead of being a doormat to all the bad feelings, thoughts and situations. God is our ultimate reliever of all that ails us. When storms knock at our door, no matter how big or small we let Him fight it for us. This book is a good reminder to not stick our head in the sand when life gets hard.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
Leeana Tankersley, like so many of us, began to feel overwhelmed by life. And like so many of us, she assumed she was struggling not because life is inherently difficult but because she was personally failing in some way. She knows firsthand what it is to bully yourself, to put yourself down for not being able to keep it all together, to compare yourself to others and find yourself lacking. But she's also discovered that all of the hurt and hostility and pain only add up to a life of holding your breath. What if we could exhale and let go?
About the Author:
Leeana Tankersley holds English degrees from Liberty University and West Virginia University. She and her Navy SEAL husband, Steve, are currently stationed in San Diego, California, with their three children: Luke, Lane, and Elle. Leeana writes about living from the spacious place on her blog, www.leeanatankersley.com.
My Review:
This book written by a woman that herself had come to her critical line when the life around her terrified her to her core inspires us to reach for God for help through the madness. She had become overwhelmed with her life. It wasn't that she was leading a life that was miserable to her, just one that had been engulfed with stress that was beyond her level of enduring---so she in a sense had reached her end with it. Breathing Room, is about the guilt and shame of self condemnation and how to reach up to the Lord for a much needed rescue from life and from the terrible nagging thoughts that plague our minds in those times where we berate ourselves for just simply existing.
I enjoyed the book and the authors quirkiness about life, she definitely has a sense of humor. But she also has a sense of "realness" that is very refreshing. I also liked her rawness because sometimes you have to get down in the mud and choose to fight instead of being a doormat to all the bad feelings, thoughts and situations. God is our ultimate reliever of all that ails us. When storms knock at our door, no matter how big or small we let Him fight it for us. This book is a good reminder to not stick our head in the sand when life gets hard.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
June 28, 2022
I feel like the concept of the book (taking moments to pause and breathe even in the midst of the craziness of life) could have been summed up with all these relevant stories and applicable points in a 1 hour message. The first 25% of the book was good and then the later 75% repeated it with different words and different stories. Maybe this book wasn't for me, but it just felt empty and void of true Holy Spirit driven conviction and peace.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2014
Leeana Tankersley in her new book, “Breathing Room” published by Revell teaches us Letting Go So You Can Fully Live.
From the Back Cover: AN INVITATION TO BREATHE
Catastrophe or no catastrophe, if you are unhinged, disoriented, suffocating, or otherwise generally dragging, I’m inviting you to pull up a chair at this table . . .
Breathing Room is a beautiful release of self-condemnation, a discovery of the rest that comes when we offer ourselves some space to breathe. Vulnerable and winsome, Leeana Tankersley shows you how to stop beating yourself up, how to be radically on your own team, and how to truly experience grace. If you’ve been putting on a strong front and yet are secretly coming apart, you’ll find in these pages a trusted friend.
Who is the biggest bully in your life? You are. Who is the person you bully? You, of course. We compare ourselves to others and continually come up short. We analyze situations we had been in and feel we could have handled things better, we even remember those situations years later and what does that accomplish? Nothing, except it locks us into a box with very little wiggle room. Ms. Tankersley tells us that if we hold our breath eventually our body will start an alarm to warn us that we must breath. According to her what the body is telling us is that we must eliminate Carbon Dioxide before we take a breath. We have to let go of all the bad before we can let in any good. That is what “Breathing Room” is all about. It is a tool to help let go of all the bullying that we give ourselves and allow God in to help heal us and get us going in the right direction.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Back Cover: AN INVITATION TO BREATHE
Catastrophe or no catastrophe, if you are unhinged, disoriented, suffocating, or otherwise generally dragging, I’m inviting you to pull up a chair at this table . . .
Breathing Room is a beautiful release of self-condemnation, a discovery of the rest that comes when we offer ourselves some space to breathe. Vulnerable and winsome, Leeana Tankersley shows you how to stop beating yourself up, how to be radically on your own team, and how to truly experience grace. If you’ve been putting on a strong front and yet are secretly coming apart, you’ll find in these pages a trusted friend.
Who is the biggest bully in your life? You are. Who is the person you bully? You, of course. We compare ourselves to others and continually come up short. We analyze situations we had been in and feel we could have handled things better, we even remember those situations years later and what does that accomplish? Nothing, except it locks us into a box with very little wiggle room. Ms. Tankersley tells us that if we hold our breath eventually our body will start an alarm to warn us that we must breath. According to her what the body is telling us is that we must eliminate Carbon Dioxide before we take a breath. We have to let go of all the bad before we can let in any good. That is what “Breathing Room” is all about. It is a tool to help let go of all the bullying that we give ourselves and allow God in to help heal us and get us going in the right direction.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 11, 2014
This book caught me from the introduction, I found myself sharing pictures of quotes. It is a much-needed book, a combination of recovery and Christianity, Leeana Tankersley has reached out to a population that is often ignored. Most Christian living books offer helpful advice, yet many come from a perspective of having it all together. This book is different in the fact that it approaches things from a recovery standpoint. What I mean by recovery isn’t just a recovery from addictions, although it may help with that, but a recovery from the times that life has sapped you of everything you have to give and you simply have nothing left. This book is for those that have been there and need to understand that life goes on and it gets better. This book is for those people who feel like they are the only ones who have ever felt THIS way. She talks about coming apart and how hard it is, and the questions we may have about ourselves and our faith as we go through this struggle. This is not a typical book about rest, or even about falling apart or getting yourself together. This is a refreshing view of doing life while giving yourself grace, taking responsibility and giving yourself permission to be human and have feelings that might not line up with everyone else’s view of reality.
This is the perfect book for that person who feels like they just don’t know how to go on, or they don’t understand how they got in this mess to begin with. She gives you practical steps and principals for processing things and for reclaiming your life.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Reads Blog Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
http://thepuresacrifice.wordpress.com...
This is the perfect book for that person who feels like they just don’t know how to go on, or they don’t understand how they got in this mess to begin with. She gives you practical steps and principals for processing things and for reclaiming your life.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Reads Blog Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
http://thepuresacrifice.wordpress.com...
October 20, 2014
I had the privilege of reading Breathing Room by Leeana Tankersley. I think a lot of women especially will be able to relate to the struggles that Ms. Tankersley experienced. I loved how she started out the book and didn’t dwell so much on her struggles (although allowed the reader a peak into what she was dealing with in her daily life so we could sympathize and relate to each other) but instead allowed the reader to feel “safe” to feel whatever feelings he/she wanted to regarding our own personal struggles. The struggles themselves weren’t focused on but instead the main point I took away from the book was “permission to feel” the struggles, really feel them, and then emerge with God’s help out on the other side. Not dismiss them, not pretend they didn’t exist, and not ignore the symptoms that emerged as a result of them. No, she invited us to really dig into what was causing the “critical line” in our lives and then to see how God wanted to bring us out on the other side.
This book is great for anyone who is feeling trapped or “in too deep” or just at the point where they need life to stop for a second or two or one hundred. I think this book will be a great encouragement to those who need some breathing room - and if we’re all honest, everyone has needed breathing room at one point or another in our lives. That’s the way modern society works - keeping people moving at a frantic speed until they can’t do it anymore.
I received this book for free from Book Club Network and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
This book is great for anyone who is feeling trapped or “in too deep” or just at the point where they need life to stop for a second or two or one hundred. I think this book will be a great encouragement to those who need some breathing room - and if we’re all honest, everyone has needed breathing room at one point or another in our lives. That’s the way modern society works - keeping people moving at a frantic speed until they can’t do it anymore.
I received this book for free from Book Club Network and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2015
Breathing Room: Letting Go So You Can Fully Live
by Leeana Tankersley
Publ: Revell c.2014
Leeana opens this book by saying that the opposite of holding your breath is not inhaling but exhaling. She then proceeds to show you how she walked from a place of holding her breath emotionally, mentally and spiritually to learning to exhale in the Hard places of life, allowing you to see all the dark places she had to walk through before she learned to breath.
She leads you to a place where you can see the times and places where you are holding your breath. You see the effects of holding your breath, both for yourself and those you love. She shares her coping mechanisms with you and helps you find others that may work better for you. The lives of others who have been holding their breath are used to help you see the different ways that holding your breath looks.
Mostly she gives you hope that there is a way out of the habit of holding your breath, that there is a life after you learn to breath again, and that when you find yourself holding your breath there is a God there to walk you to wholeness.
This book came into my life at a God-appointed time. I truly needed to hear what Leeana had to say. Read this book if you are in a Hard place. Read this book if you have a loved one in a Hard place. Read this book and see your life and the lives of those around you changed. What ever you do READ THIS BOOK.
I received this book through the Book Club Network for my unbiased review.
by Leeana Tankersley
Publ: Revell c.2014
Leeana opens this book by saying that the opposite of holding your breath is not inhaling but exhaling. She then proceeds to show you how she walked from a place of holding her breath emotionally, mentally and spiritually to learning to exhale in the Hard places of life, allowing you to see all the dark places she had to walk through before she learned to breath.
She leads you to a place where you can see the times and places where you are holding your breath. You see the effects of holding your breath, both for yourself and those you love. She shares her coping mechanisms with you and helps you find others that may work better for you. The lives of others who have been holding their breath are used to help you see the different ways that holding your breath looks.
Mostly she gives you hope that there is a way out of the habit of holding your breath, that there is a life after you learn to breath again, and that when you find yourself holding your breath there is a God there to walk you to wholeness.
This book came into my life at a God-appointed time. I truly needed to hear what Leeana had to say. Read this book if you are in a Hard place. Read this book if you have a loved one in a Hard place. Read this book and see your life and the lives of those around you changed. What ever you do READ THIS BOOK.
I received this book through the Book Club Network for my unbiased review.
February 13, 2015
Breathing Room is an encouraging book by Leeana Tankersley—words that help a person who is in a time of self-condemnation, a time of inability to cope, or a time of struggling to manage life. She calls these times, the Hard. She relates her own struggles when her family moved to Bahrain for her husband’s job as a Navy SEAL. She has been through the difficult times and confronted the toxic voices that attack with accusations of inadequacy and failure. The story of her experiences in itself is an interesting read, but the wisdom that she imparts about beginning again, accepting oneself and releasing the negativity, and living each day are very helpful. She encourages a person to continue in the midst of oppression, insecurity, self-doubt, and resistance and to reach out for help with life. This quote from the book seems to summarize her intent: “Show up and participate in what life has in front of you, in what God is doing in your life.” Each chapter begins with a meaningful quote from literature or someone famous or from scripture. She includes a recommended reading list at the end and her blog site in which the reader can gain more help and insights. I would recommend this book to everyone whether or not you are experiencing struggle with life at this time. It would be a good reference book to have on hand. I received this book through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
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