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Stress-Free Fun: Breathing & Movement

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Lesson Plan

Stress-Free Fun: Breathing & Movement

Learn stress-relief strategies

This lesson introduces elementary students to simple stress-relief strategies, including breathing exercises and fun movement breaks. These activities are designed to help young students recognize and manage stress effectively, promoting emotional well-being and focus in the classroom. By learning these techniques, students can develop healthy habits for managing stress, which can improve their overall learning experience and personal development.

Audience

Elementary Students

Time

15 minutes

Approach

Learn stress-relief strategies

Materials

Breathing Exercise Guide, and Movement Break Instructions

Step 1

Introduction

2 minutes

  • Briefly explain what stress is in simple terms.
  • Discuss why it's important to manage stress, especially in school.

Step 2

Breathing Exercise

5 minutes

  • Guide students through a simple breathing exercise:
    • Inhale deeply through the nose for 4 counts.
    • Hold the breath for 4 counts.
    • Exhale slowly through the mouth for 4 counts.
    • Repeat 3-4 times.
  • Encourage students to notice how they feel before and after the exercise.

Step 3

Movement Break

5 minutes

  • Lead students in a fun movement break:
    • Jumping jacks for 30 seconds.
    • Arm circles for 30 seconds.
    • Shake out the whole body for 30 seconds.
  • Emphasize the importance of moving to release stress and re-energize.

Step 4

Closure

3 minutes

  • Ask students how they feel after the exercises.
  • Encourage them to use these techniques whenever they feel stressed.
  • Remind them that it's okay to feel stressed and that these tools can help.
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Reading

Breathing Exercise Guide

A simple guide to help students practice breathing exercises for stress relief.

Breathing Exercise Guide

Deep Breathing Steps:

  1. Sit comfortably with your back straight.
  2. Close your eyes if you feel comfortable.
  3. Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of 4.
  4. Hold your breath for a count of 4.
  5. Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of 4.
  6. Repeat this process 3-4 times.

Tips:

  • Focus on your breath and try to clear your mind.
  • Notice how your body feels as you breathe in and out.
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lenny

Reading

Movement Break Instructions

Instructions for leading a fun and energizing movement break to help students relieve stress.

Movement Break Instructions

Activities:

  • Jumping Jacks:

    • Stand with your feet together and arms at your sides.
    • Jump up, spreading your legs and raising your arms above your head.
    • Return to the starting position and repeat for 30 seconds.

  • Arm Circles:

    • Extend your arms out to the sides.
    • Make small circles with your arms, gradually increasing the size.
    • Reverse the direction after 15 seconds and continue for another 15 seconds.

  • Shake It Out:

    • Shake your arms, legs, and whole body to release tension.
    • Continue shaking for 30 seconds.

Tips:

  • Encourage students to have fun and be silly.
  • Remind them that movement can help release stress and boost energy.
lenny
lenny