How To Breathe-A Book By Ashley Neese
“showing our children what healthy relaxation looks like and making it a fun activity can be a great way to connect and give them a lifelong tool for self-care. Each child is different and has a unique set of needs that support them to feel confident, successful, and in control of themselves. The Parent and Child Relaxation Breath is an encouraging practice to help reinforce their personal development and give them space to continue learning to self-regulate.”
We are always looking for ways to connect with our children. I know for me as a single mom of a teenager it can be quite hard to find a moment to connect. At 17, she already has a work life and a social life besides her school life. I personally have modified this practice to work for me and my daughter and the three minutes we spend breathing together has help us to be in each others presence completely. This in turn helps our conversations flow more freely and openly. It’s a beautiful thing to have that one on one with my daughter. Lisa Bartels, Administrative Assistant, PRS, WRAP Sem 1 Facilitator, A.S.I.S.T
Sitting Up Next To Your Child, Three To Five Minutes.
- Sit comfortably.
- Set an intention together.
- Ash your child to start paying attention to their breathing and see what they notice.
- Have them place on hand on their belly and you do the same.
- Invite them to breathe in through their nose with with a closed mouth until they feel their chest expand.
- Ask them to hold their breath for one second at the top of the inhale.
- Next, invite them to blow the air out through their mouth as slowly as possible.
- Repeat this practice with them until they feel relaxed.
- Check with your child afterward and give them the space to talk about what they experienced.
- Close the practice together.
- Journal if you have time.
To learn more about breathing techniques, recovery tools, WRAP or group visit our Wellness Center virtually or in person.