Smile, breathe and go slowly is not about pretending everything is fine. Thich Nhat Hanh lived through decades of war and other violence and is offering a three step pause for the moments when your chest feels tight and your thoughts are racing. 

Smile softens your face and reminds your body you are still here. Breathe brings air back into your lungs and gives your brain a second to catch up. Go slowly is permission to move at your own pace instead of letting panic drag you around. This does not erase anxiety or replace real help. It is one small act of control you can reach for any time you feel yourself starting to spin.