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Teaching kids mindfulness can be a challenge, especially when they’re used to being constantly stimulated. Finger tracing breathing practice is a great way to get kids engaging with both their breath and the present moment. This activity can be done either sitting or standing, and it’s an easy way for teachers, therapists, parents, and even kids yoga teachers to introduce mindful awareness in a playful way.
What Is Finger Tracing Breathing Practice?
Finger tracing breathing practice is an activity that encourages children to focus on the sensation of their breath by tracing the outline of their fingers. It’s simple enough for any age group, but engaging enough that younger children won’t become distracted. The practice helps them become more aware of their body and brings attention to the breath.
How To Do Finger Tracing Breathing Practice
To do this exercise, start by having your child stand or sit tall with feet planted on the ground or crossed at the ankles (whichever feels most comfortable).
Ask them to take a few deep breaths through their nose and then exhale out through their mouth.
Once they’re settled into the rhythm of their breath, have them trace the outline of each finger with their thumb as they inhale in through their nose, and exhale out through their mouth.
Have your child keep tracing until they reach their pinky finger before starting over again with their pointer finger; then repeat several times until they feel settled into a relaxed state.
You can also have them count each time they trace a finger as part of a meditative counting practice.
Benefits Of Finger Tracing Breathing Practice
Finger tracing breathing practice is an effective tool for teaching kids mindful awareness in just a few minutes—and it comes with many benefits! Not only does it give children an opportunity to explore different sensations within the body (such as touch), but it also helps them cultivate patience and concentration while learning how to stay present in any given moment. In addition, this practice helps kids tune into subtle physical cues such as tension or stress that may arise during times when they don’t feel particularly settled or relaxed. Overall, finger tracing breathing practice is not only fun but also incredibly helpful in teaching children mindfulness skills that will last throughout life!
Finger tracing breathing practice is an easy yet effective way for adults to teach children mindfulness skills in just a few minutes! This fun activity encourages children to focus on both the sensation of their breath and the present moment while helping them cultivate patience and concentration alongside physical awareness—all without needing any special equipment or materials. Whether you’re a teacher, therapist, parent, or kid yoga teacher looking for ways to engage young minds in mindful practices, finger tracing breathing should definitely be part of your toolkit!
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