Materials: Optional: Yoga mats
Set Up:
Ensure students have enough space to lie down.
Ideally, set up yoga mats for your students with enough space in between them to discourage students from distracting one another.
Today we’re going to practice ocean breathing.
Begin by laying on your back on the mat.
Imagine that you are lying on the beach and listening to the ocean waves.
Can you make your breaths sound like ocean waves?
Listen as you breathe in and out.
Can you hear your breath?
Gently place your hands on your stomach.
Do you feel your stomach moving up and down like ocean waves?
Wonderful.
Let’s do this for one minute.
Imagine you are listening to the waves, soaking up the sunshine, and letting your whole
body relax.
Allow for one minute of silent rest.
You do not need to read the included script verbatim. Adapt the language so that it is appropriate for your students in particular.
It is not important for students to get this breath practice “exactly right.” Instead, focus on helping them build mind-body awareness each time you practice.
Offer students positive reinforcements throughout each practice. Focus on qualities and behaviors they can control, like their focus, effort, or persistence. Be specific whenever possible. This will help your students develop a “growth mindset.”
Authors: Megan Downey and Anna Basile
Adapted from: Compassionate Schools Project
