Performers typically stand in the wings __________________ just prior to going on stage. This helps them to think more clearly and settle their nerves.

“Breathing deeply” describes an action performers can do while standing in the wings, and it can help calm them before they go on stage. The sentence reads naturally as: “Performers typically stand in the wings breathing deeply just prior to going on stage.” “Thinking positively” is possible in meaning, but deep breathing more directly helps settle nerves.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.