Do your little ones love building with Lego? Why not turn it into a breathing exercise? Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation into a fun activity can help them learn valuable tools for managing stress and anxiety. Here's how to do it:
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Choose a set of Lego blocks to build with.
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As you build each block, alternate between taking a deep inhale and exhaling. Build a block, inhale. Build a block, exhale. Keep going until you've completed your build.
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Encourage your child to focus on their breathing as they build. This helps them stay present in the moment and mindful of their thoughts and feelings.
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Practicing this exercise regularly can help your child develop a stronger connection between their breath and their emotions, and can help them feel more calm and relaxed overall.
Here's the cherry on top. Usually, when you're building Lego, you're in a calm, relaxed state. Making it the most effective time to be practicing these emotional regulation skills!
So, next time your tiny humans need a break from the stresses of the day, grab some Lego blocks and give this breathing exercise a try!
For more ways to incorporate yoga, mindfulness and play, check out Metta Play bilingual yoga and affirmation cards here