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Breathing exercises are proven to have many benefits. There are breathing techniques proven to help ease stress. Breathing methods to aid healthy sleep, such as moon breathing, and there are even breathing sessions that can improve digestion. As adults, some of these techniques can take a while to master, but they pay off in the end. Undoubtedly, kids should get the same benefits. But at a young age, it can be difficult to grasp complex concepts and tasks.
To help kids get the most out of breathing techniques, try these three exercises to get them started. You’ll have a little breath master running around in no time, and you’ll both have fun learning.
1. Deep Breathing
Deep breathing, or belly breathing, is one of the easiest breathing techniques to learn and is a GR8 starting point for kids. Studies show that deep breaths have positive effects on mental health, the cardiovascular system, respiratory function, and nervous system. As the most vital body function, teaching kids, deep breathing is an excellent idea.
How to practice deep breathing with kids: An intense learning session on deep breathing may seem overwhelming for a child, but there are fun ways that you can practice at home. Inflate balloons with your breath or blow bubbles. These techniques can be especially helpful when children are stressed or upset.
2. Bumble Bee Breathing
While the official name is Bhramari, part of many yoga classes, referring to the practice as bumblebee breathing, is bound to be much more appealing to the little ones. It’s said that this particular breathing method can help slow speedy minds, lessen stress, and promote calmness. Something every kid needs once in a while.
How to practice bumblebee breathing with kids: Sit on the floor with your child, legs crossed. Put both of your fingers in your ears. Kids love this, and it’s part of the official technique. Then, breathe in through your noses, pause, and hum while you exhale through your noses too. You’ll be sounding just like a bumblebee. It will surely make kids giggle while also reaping the benefits of breathing exercises.
3. Lion’s Breath
Another breathing exercise that’s a hit with kids due to its fun name and silly technique, Lion’s breath is GR8 for little ones. It helps reduce stress (in fact, it was one of our favorites on the list of breathing techniques to get through the holidays) and can help both you and your child get rid of negative energy.
How to practice Lion’s breath with kids: Kids have more fun when you’re doing laugh-worthy things together, and it promotes bonding. Invite your child to join you as you both take a deep breath in through your noses until your lungs are full. Then, open your mouths super wide and do a powerful exhale. You’ll naturally make a noise from the back of your throats that kids will giggle over.
Make Breathing Fun
We all know that kids aren’t likely to sit through an activity they think is boring and that they generally have short attention spans. What’s GR8 about these breathing exercises is that they’re quick, easy, and both you and your child can get some laughs while practicing and still reap all the benefits of breathwork. Participating in these goofy yet effective breathing exercises is an excellent way to build a strong relationship with your child.
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