The Lazy Eight Breath: A Fun and Calming Technique for You and Your Child

Hello parents and carers!

Today, we're excited to introduce you to an easy breathing exercise that can help you and your child find calm in moments of stress or excitement. It's called the "Lazy Eight Breath," and it's as easy as it is effective!

What is the Lazy Eight Breath?
Imagine a number 8 lying on its side - that's our lazy eight! This simple shape becomes a roadmap for our breathing, helping us to focus and regulate when emotional visitors visit.

How to do the Lazy Eight Breath:

• Start in the middle of the '8'
• Trace up and to the left while breathing in
• Trace down and around while breathing out
• Continue up to the right while breathing in
• Trace down and back to the centre while breathing out

The beauty of this technique is its versatility. You can:

• Draw it in the air with the finger
• Trace it on the palm or arm
• Imagine it in the mind

When to use it: Let your child see you using it when you're feeling:

• Worried
• Upset
• Angry
• Disappointed
• In need of a moment of calm

Why it works:

• The repetitive motion is soothing
• It encourages slow, deep breathing
• It gives the mind something to focus on
• It can be done discreetly anywhere

Remember, practice makes perfect!

Why not make it a family activity? Role-modelling and doing it together might create calm space for both of you!

POSTER TO PRINT AT HOME

In our next post, we'll explore more fun breathing techniques to try at home. Until then, enjoy your lazy eight adventures!

Well done for doing a fantastic job supporting your child's emotional wellbeing!

If you like this, come and find lots of resources and support in the Learnful Family. We meet once a month online to share practices, tips and a have a chat about parent self-regulation. I'd love to see you :-)