Deep Breathing

Why Should It be done ?

  • To slow down a student’s breathing to assist with upset, stressed and anxious feelings

  • Relaxes muscles and brings your heart rate back to normal

  • Gives students a sense of control and relief

  • Creates feelings of internal calmness

  • It enhances focus

  • Helps with self-regulation

When Should it be done ?

  • When student(s)/teacher feels internal tension rising

  • When student is agitated or overwhelmed

  • Different parts of the day (schedule to do as a class before/after transitioning)

  • When nervous, afraid, are over stimulated

  • Before a test, project or presentation

How should it be done?

  • Get your students attention in a calm or quiet voice

  • Give the class some norms/rules. For example, no blowing your breath on your neighbor or yelling someone breath stinks.

  • Instruct your students to take a deep breath in through their nose

  • Breathe in for 5 seconds (teacher will count to 5 while students are breathing in)

  • Hold that breath for 3 seconds (teacher will count to 3 while students hold the breath)

  • Release the breath through their mouth for 5 seconds (teacher will count the 5 seconds while students are releasing the breath)

  • Repeat the process 3 to 5 times so students can get some practice