Deep breathing or diaphragmatic breathing can be a technique for stress management. Results of a study have supported the effectiveness of deep breathing for stress relief and mood improvement among university students. What makes deep breathing great is that it can be tailored to suit a client’s preferences.
The Managing Stress With Deep Breathing handout explains the science behind deep breathing and stress relief. It also introduces 3 simple techniques clients can get started with, such as Balloon Breaths, Square Breathing, and Bubble Breaths. At the bottom of the handout, clients will discover ways to turn deep breathing into a fun adventure.
Deep breathing offers physical and mental health benefits for kids and teens, such as improved mood, increased focus, and healthier sleep patterns. When explaining a technique to them, keep it simple. Moreover, keep in mind that mastering a technique may take time — so stay patient and supportive.
This handout is included with many more stress relief activities in our 39-page Stress Management Handouts Bundle.
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References:
- Perciavalle V, Blandini M, Fecarotta P, Buscemi A, Di Corrado D, Bertolo L, Fichera F, Coco M. The role of deep breathing on stress. Neurol Sci. 2017 Mar;38(3):451-458. doi: 10.1007/s10072-016-2790-8. Epub 2016 Dec 19. PMID: 27995346.
- Relaxation techniques: Breath control helps quell errant stress response. (2020, July 6). Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/relaxation-techniques-breath-control-helps-quell-errant-stress-response
