It took me a few years to handstand for 60 seconds and longer to stand still for 60 minutes. I still practice the latter. Most often for ten to twenty minutes. It’s the game of Life pause button I found in my control. And with so much out of control, I’m glad it’s within reach.

Too often I forget I will die. I’m back to my senses when I remember. Lately, it's the Irish sea that brings me back. Before entering I make an agreement with myself, after 60 front strokes I’ll decide whether to stay or not.

We always think we know our minds until we sit down and write.

By Colm O’Shea