01/13/2022
✨ BREATHING BALL BREATHS:
Using a Hoberman sphere, we can visualize our breath. Breathe naturally. As you breathe in, pull outwards to expand the ball just like the lungs expand when you fill them up with air. As you breathe out, collapse the ball inwards to contract the ball just like the lungs contract when you exhale to push air out of the body. Repeat as many times as needed to help you feel present.
*Tip: If you want to feel calm, slow this breath down and see how deeply you can breathe in and out. Try expanding your belly like a balloon as you breathe in, and feel your belly pull in as your bellybutton moves towards your spine as you breathe out. Notice how this makes you feel.
**For a fun variation, try using the ball to breathe quickly, taking short breaths in and out. Notice how this makes you feel, and how your body responds to this type of breathing. For example, does this breath remind you of what it feels like to be anxious, or scared? What kind of breathing can you use to calm down in these situations?
Even if you don’t have a Hoberman sphere to visualize the breath, I encourage you to use your hands or have children place their hands on their bellies to help them see their breath. Bringing awareness into the body can help children navigate tough feelings and calm down during heightened emotional states. Breathing together is also a wonderful family activity that can help you feel more connected to and closer to your loved ones. 🤗💛🙏🏻
