How does one Model Balance to Help your Child’s Well-being? Well, managing stress and fostering emotional well-being starts EARLY and requires conscious effort. Learning how to remain in balance early in life gives one a powerful tool for from childhood through to adulthood.
Now, the definition of balance is: (1) an even distribution of weight enabling someone/something to remain upright and steady, (2) a condition in which elements are equal or in the correct proportions. We often see balance as being unattainable because we think we lack the time, energy and/or money to achieve it.
Dealing with stress in various effective, healthy ways may be difficult for everyone, especially youth. And ESPECIALLY really young children.
Luckily, there are things we can do to remain calm no matter how stressful life becomes. Breath work is a simple, powerful tool that can be used to slow a racing heart and calm oneself in times of stress. A powerful and informative tool to relearn breathing (yes, I said RELEARN) is an amazing book by James Nester, champion free diver, called ‘Breath, The New Science of A Lost Art‘. It is an INVALUABLE addition to your reading material and will CHANGE YOUR LIFE!
More Reading: Don’t Pour From An Empty Cup
There are many breathing exercises for children and adults. One fun technique for teaching children deep breathing is called Flower Breath; imagine smelling a flower. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth slowly. Remember to “stop, breathe and be mindful and aware of the present moment.” Another, Bumblebee Breathing and all the Breathing Breaks are a great activity to teach children to help them to tune out stress, to relax and to get the mind ready to learn. Here are some suggested times throughout the day to try Bumble Bee Breathing with children:
- Before the school day begins.
- After recess to help calm the class.
- After a brain break.
- Following a kinesthetic lesson.
- After lunch.
- Before a test.
Most times, our commitments can make balance seem out of reach. Modeling balance in your own life can help your child learn to find balance in theirs.
Set aside time to play with your child, even as they get older. The “play” may change with age, but they don’t stop needing those meaningful connections with their parents. Whether it’s a jigsaw puzzle, board game, tossing a ball, or shooting hoops, find something to do with your teen. If you are met with resistance, keep trying to find an activity you can both agree on.
Get outside. Taking a walk or hike is a great way for teens to get out of their heads and into their bodies. Much like breath work, physical exercise forces one to be present in the moment. Exercise releases endorphins, a natural mood elevator and can create a sense of achievement that boosts self-confidence.
The Launch Pad Teen Center offers after school and weekend day-hikes and outings, as well as 5-day outdoor camps during school breaks for youth ages 12 to 18. Visit their website www.thelaunchpadteencenter.org for more information. Oh, they are located in Prescott, Arizona. An amazing reason to visit the Copper State, if you don’t already reside here.
Keep in mind that balance can be achieved when we prioritize our commitments and pursue more of those things that bring us joy. Modeling Balance to Help your Child’s Well-being is something you can take joy in. It will bring you closer to your children and make YOU a better person (and parent!).
Brought to you by the people of Stay Healthy.
Get Fit | Stay Fit | Get Healthy | Stay Healthy
