It's fun to use body paint to paint a face on your child's belly, using the belly button as the mouth, and show them how to take the breath all the way into their belly and lungs, hold it for four seconds, then release.
2. Practice by blowing bubbles:
What child doesn't like to blow bubbles? If they are taught deep breathing and slow release techniques while playing this fun game, they are not only distracted from whatever has them upset by looking at the pretty bubbles, but also allowing their bodies to utilize oxygen for it's calming effects.
3. Go to a kids yoga class:
Many studios offer classes for children teaching great stretches and breathing techniques. If there is not one in your area, you can likely hire an instructor to create a weekly class if you have enough friends sign up for a 30 minute class, or if you are into yoga yourself, there are many mommy/daddy and me exercises on youtube.
4. Take your kids outside:
There's nothing like fresh air and sunshine (vit D), or even raindrops and puddles, to calm your child down. To take the time to practice deep breath while walking at a steady pace, or taking a deep whiff of whatever's blooming. You can't go wrong with a relay race which will also require deep breathing. If you're able to integrate some yoga and deep breathing while outside...all the better!
Teaching your children Mindfulness and Conscious breathing is a skill that will last a lifetime, and will reap benefits for you as well as we learn to practice what we preach!
All together now.....IN.........and OUT........
Melissa Steele is an artist, designer, organic farmer and director of Little Rose Nature School on her Oconee County Property.
