MindUp Breathing
Children are usually not aware that worries and other difficult emotions can ‘show up’ in their bodies as physical discomfort, like tummy aches, headaches, and muscle tension. Regularly practicing fun relaxation exercises can help bodies and minds feel loose and calm and dial down stress and worries when they do arise. How? Practicing slow, deep breathing is one of the most effective ways to feel relaxed, centered, and focused. Encourage children to breathe slowly in through the nose, allowing the belly rise, hold for a few seconds, then slowly exhale through the mouth, causing the belly to fall. Repeat the cycle 3-5 times to start and build up to 10 times for a more powerful calming effect. Add some fun by trying the following:
Five Finger Breathing: Strengthen your superpowers of focus and calm by taking slow deep breaths as you trace the outline of your hand with your pointer finger.
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Anchor for Breathing
In this video, explore the power of the breath with four mindful games that support calm and focus: “Choose Your Breathing Anchor.” “Square Breathing,” “Counting Breaths,” and “Cooling Outbreath.”