When to Use Our Breathing Superpower

Sometimes we have big feelings like anger, sadness, or worry. These feelings can make our bodies feel tight, shaky, or full of wiggles. Our breath is a secret superpower we have with us all the time! By taking slow, deep breaths, we can tell our body and brain that it's time to calm down and relax.

Imagine someone knocks over the block tower you just built. You feel your face get hot and your hands make fists. This is a great time for your breathing superpower!Stop. Pause before you do anything else.Hands on Belly. Place your hands on your tummy.Breathe In. Take a long, slow breath in through your nose, like you are smelling a flower. Feel your belly get big like a balloon.Breathe Out. Slowly let the air out of your mouth, like you are blowing out birthday candles. Feel your belly get smaller.Repeat. Do this three times and feel the mad feeling start to shrink.

It's your turn to share something with the class and your tummy feels fluttery with butterflies. You feel worried you might forget what to say. This is a perfect time for your breathing superpower!Find a quiet moment. You can do this right at your desk.Breathe In Courage. As you breathe in slowly, imagine you are breathing in sparkly, brave air.Breathe Out Worries. As you breathe out slowly, imagine you are blowing all the worry butterflies gently away.Repeat. Do this until your tummy feels more settled and you feel ready.