Simple mind-body exercises to start with are deep belly breathing. In this activity, students will stand up straight with their feet shoulder-width apart, their bodies relaxed and their eyes closed. You will read the instructions for them to follow as they observe the breath as it flows through their body.
- Start by having your child breathe normally. Ask them if they notice anything about it. What parts of their body move as they breathe? What does it feel like?
- Now have them lie on their backs and place their hands on their bellies.
- With their mouths closed, have them breathe in for four seconds or until they feel their whole chest fill with air all the way down to their belly.
- Have them hold in the air for four seconds.
- Then have them slowly blow all the air out until it’s all gone.
- Repeat until the body feels relaxed.