Do you and your tiny humans ever feel stressed or anxious sometimes? It's normal! However, it's important to learn how to manage those feelings. One easy and effective technique is called 7/11 breathing where you inhale for 7 counts and exhale for 11. Here are 5 fun ways to practice 7/11 breathing with your kids:
-
Blow out candles
Pretend you're holding a cake with candles on it. Take a deep breath in for 7 counts. Get ready and blow the candles out for 11 counts. Repeat. -
Hot cocoa breathing
Imagine you're holding a cup of hot cocoa. Take a deep breath in for 7 counts, then slowly blow off the steam for 11 counts. Repeat. -
Bee breathing
Take a deep breath in for 7 counts, then exhale while making a humming sound like a bee for 11 counts. Repeat. -
Balloon breathing
Pretend you're blowing up a balloon. Take a deep breath in for 7 counts, then slowly blow up the balloon for 11 counts. Repeat. -
Superhero breathing
Strike a superhero pose. Take a deep breath in for 7 counts, and puff up your chest! Exhale for 11 counts slowly. Repeat.
7/11 breathing is an easy, slow and practical way to turn on your rest and digest system. You can start with shorter counts and gradually increase them as you and your kids get more comfortable with the technique. Try practicing these fun ways to make it a part of your daily routine and feel the benefits of a calm and relaxed mind and body.