animal breathing exercises
Combine the benefits of controlled breathing with imaginative play. Each technique uses the natural characteristics of different animals to teach specific breathing patterns – from the energizing bunny breaths to the deeply relaxing bear hibernation breathing.
Lion’s breath
Channel your inner lion to release tension and stress:
Sit up tall like a proud lion
Take a deep breath in through your nose
Open your mouth wide and stick out your tongue
Exhale with a loud “AHHHHH” sound, like a lion’s roar
Make a fierce (but fun) lion face while you breathe out
Repeat 3-5 times
Great for: Releasing anger, building confidence, or when feeling frustrated
bunny breath
Quick, gentle breaths like a curious bunny:
Sit comfortably and wiggle your nose like a bunny
Take 3 quick, short sniffs in through your nose (sniff-sniff-sniff)
Then one long, slow exhale through your mouth
Imagine you’re smelling flowers in a garden
Repeat 5-8 times
Great for: Quick energy boost, before activities, or when feeling sleepy
snake breath
Slow, controlled breathing like a calm snake:
Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose
As you exhale, make a soft “ssssss” hissing sound
Keep the hiss steady and controlled, not loud
Imagine you’re a peaceful snake sunning on a warm rock
Make the hiss last as long as comfortable
Repeat 5-7 times
Great for: Deep relaxation, before sleep, or when feeling anxious
bear breath
Deep, slow breathing like a bear preparing for winter rest:
Sit or lie down in a cozy position
Breathe in deeply through your nose for 4 counts (filling your belly like a bear)
Hold for 2 counts (like a bear pausing)
Breathe out slowly through your mouth for 6 counts (settling down for rest)
Imagine you’re a bear getting ready for a peaceful winter nap
Repeat 6-10 times