Exercise 1: Dragon Breath (For Frustration and Anger)

What It Is:
A bold, playful breathing technique that helps kids release built-up tension and express strong emotions safely.

Why It Works:
Anger activates the body’s stress response — clenched muscles, racing heart, short breaths. Dragon Breath gives that energy a safe exit path. The long out-breath cools the body while the imagery engages imagination and play, disarming the emotional charge.

How To Teach It (During Calm Times):

Stand tall in “dragon pose” (feet wide, hands on hips).
Inhale deeply through the nose.
Blow out strongly through the mouth with a big “Haaaah!” like fire breath.
Repeat 3–5 times. Add a stomp, a roar, or even make it a duet.

When To Use It:

When your child is frustrated, irritable, or overstimulated.
After an argument or to cool down.
Before transitions that usually cause resistance.

Practice Playfully:
Call it “Dragon School.” Let your child name their dragon, design its powers, and lead the breathing session like a fire-breathing coach. Give silly medals like “Strongest Breath” or “Coolest Fire.”

Reflection Prompt:
Draw your dragon. What helps it calm down after breathing fire?