Why I wrote a book about feelings.
The need for calm
When Covid hit, like so many other kids, my son was homeschooled. The challenge of the situation was undeniable, and it began a journey that led me to a lot of emotional investigation. I combed through so many self-help books, and was glued to YouTube videos along with social media posts in search of some wisdom that could transform me into a patient and wise teacher for my son. He was in the 4th grade at the time, and it felt like the weight of his life was on my shoulders.
Ultimately, I felt like a failure.
I never turned into a stellar teacher. Frankly, I was terrible at it. I was to impatient, quick to frustration and distressed about the whole ordeal. But, there was wisdom and transformation. I turned my attention away from the logistics of teaching and focused on connection.
I learned to let go and listen.
How are you feeling?
How are you feeling? became a question I asked in many forms. I whispered the question to myself throughout the day. When I felt an anxious ache in my stomach, I learned to turn the present moment for comfort. I learned to be silent. I asked my son about his feelings before breakfast and at bedtime. I upped my eye contact and worked on my patience. I am still working.
I leaned on my creativity and began my own work. I designed a Feelings Wheel out of cardboard and simple illustrations which led to other designs for more feelings activities. My son gave me feedback on my artwork, pushing me to do better. Life wasn’t perfect, but it was getting more meaningful.
Daily Practices
Breath work became something I was leaning on to help me calm down from my effervescent anxiety. Creating visuals to guide through breathing patterns became another element of the book too. Kids can visualize the arch of a rainbow, the peaks of a mountain, or the curves of flower petals to guide them through a breathing practice. In my book, a mountain breathing spread is one of my favorite parts.
Benefits of breath work for kids.
Improved Focus and Concentration
Practicing breathwork can help children enhance their attention span and improve concentration, making it easier for them to engage in schoolwork and other activities.
Emotional Regulation
Breathwork techniques can assist children in managing their emotions by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This can lead to better responses to stress and improved mood.
Enhanced Physical Well-being
Deep breathing exercises can improve lung capacity and overall respiratory health, encouraging a sense of physical vitality and wellbeing.
Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
Engaging in breathwork helps kids cultivate mindfulness, allowing them to become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, which can lead to greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Incorporating breathwork into a child’s routine can create a foundation for lifelong health and emotional management skills.
Activities and Printables to help kids with their feelings
Setting up a calm corner in a classroom or in your home is a comforting way to bring a feelings practice into a child’s daily routine. It creates a safe space for children to express their emotions. Blankets, books and even a few stuffed toys can warm up a space and give kids the quiet moment they may need during a busy, overstimulated day.
I am including links to free resources that I offer on this website here:
