BREATHING EXERCISES TO HELP CHILDREN MANAGE THEIR EMOTIONS

Stop for a moment; Put down your phone and close your eyes. Take a long, slow, deep breath and exhale. Now notice how you feel. Are you relaxed and less anxious?

More than likely, the answer to above is yes. Welcome to the power of your breath,

or pranayama as the yogis (people who practice yoga) say.

Breathing is a technique that is crucial in yoga. For children, when anger, frustration or sadness arise, the experience can be overwhelming. So, breathing exercises can help lower your child’s anxiety and stress and give him or her a sense of control.

According to Tonia Kulp, a certified yoga instructor at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), “Simple yoga breathing is a powerful tool in managing our emotions, energy levels, feelings and thoughts. Controlled, conscious breathing can decrease anxiety, aid in the balancing of unpleasant thoughts and emotions- especially in young children.”

Benefits of Deep Breathing for Kids (And Adults)

∙Reduces stress and anxiety

∙Promotes happiness

∙Ignites peace and calmness

∙Lowers blood pressure and heart rate

∙Reduces tension

∙Improves focus and concentration

The following are some of many breathing exercises that can help a child access more ease and clarity in any situation.

Dandelion Breath

Use this breath to build confidence and release anxiety in new situations

How to:

Sit up and let your spine grow tall. Imagine a soft dandelion flower. Take a deep breath in and then blow the air out slowly, sending the seeds into the air. Repeat three times.

.

Belly Breathing

Use this breath to self-soothe and feel comforted when sad and/or hurt.

How to:

Lie down on your back. Place one hand on your chest. Place your other hand on your belly. Take slow deep breaths and feel your chest and your belly move up and down as the air goes in and out of your body. Repeat three times.

Dragon Breathing

Use this to release tension and negative energy.

How to:

Sit cross legged or kneeling with your spine long. Breathe in through your nose and breathe out through your mouth whispering a roar. Option to stick out your tongue and open your eyes and mouth wide. Repeat 3-5 times.