Why Students Need Breathing Techniques In School
The Power of Breath: Why Students Need Breathing Techniques in Their School Day
School environments are increasingly becoming more fast-paced and demanding not only with students but also with the adults who work with the students. While creating a high-level academic environment is important, this can lead to an increase in stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Prioritizing the emotional and psychological well-being of students can be as equally important as academic performance. One simple yet powerful tool is to incorporate intentional breathing breaks into the day. Research has shown that breathing techniques can improve focus, emotional regulation, and overall academic outcomes. In CrossTrain Kids, we work on breathwork in every lesson that is taught. This is intentional. We want students to be ready for the learning that is about to take place and also be in a place to retain the information being taught. As the teacher of the lessons, you are able to adjust where you want the breathwork to take place. In some groups, it is beneficial to start with a breathing break, and in others, it is beneficial to end with a breathing break. We also embed physical movement, which we will talk about in a different blog!
The Science Behind Breathing Techniques
Utilizing breathing exercises is rooted in neuroscience and physiology. When our students engage in slow, deep breathing, they activate their parasympathetic nervous system. This can promote relaxation and counteract the stress-induced fight-or-flight response. Some studies have also shown that controlled breathing can lower cortisol levels and decrease heart rate. This can improve oxygen flow to the brain and lead to enhanced cognitive function and emotional resiliency.
Students who practiced mindful breathing exercises for just five minutes a day have shown improvements in working memory, attention span, and emotional resiliency. Additionally, breathwork can reduce classroom disruptions by supporting students with self-regulation of their emotions and behavior.
The Impact on Educational Outcomes
The benefits of breathing exercises extend beyond emotional well-being; they can directly increase learning and academic performance. Here’s how:
Improved Focus and Attention: Breathing techniques, such as box breathing, can help calm mental noise and improve students' ability to concentrate on lessons and tasks. We teach box breathing to students in CrossTrain Kids and also provide a visual that they can use any time they need a breath break.
Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Schools are increasingly recognizing the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL). Breathing exercises can equip students with tools to manage anxiety, frustration, and stress, leading to healthier interactions with their peers and teachers. We encourage educators to utilize these tools as well! We understand the pressure and increased stress levels that can come with teaching. When adults have solid coping skills and strategies, they themselves can model and show children when and how to apply them.
Better Test Performance: Test anxiety is a common barrier for students. Studies have shown that students who practice deep breathing before a test experience lower anxiety levels and perform better under pressure. You can take any of the breathing tools taught in CrossTrain Kids and utilize them at any point in the school day, especially before students take an assessment or exam. This helps get them ready to apply what you have taught them.
Increased Classroom Engagement: When students feel calmer and more focused, they may participate more actively in discussions and absorb information more efficiently. This also supports the teacher in the classroom. When your students are calm and ready to learn, you can focus on what you want to accomplish in your time with them. It also minimizes redirections, stops, and lesson restarting to address student behavioral needs.
Implementing Breathing Techniques in Schools
The good news is that integrating breathing exercises into the school day is simple and requires minimal time and resources. Schools can incorporate these techniques in the following ways:
Mindfulness Sessions: Starting the day with a brief guided breathing exercise can set a positive tone for learning. You can also do this as a refresh or reset at the start of a lesson.
Pre-Test Breath Breaks: Encouraging students to take a few deep breaths and then a few short breaths before tests can help reduce test anxiety and improve performance.
Transitions: Using breathing tools between subjects can help students reset and refocus. You can post them in your classroom, on your screen, or make individual visuals for students to use.
Calming Corners: Creating a designated space where students can practice deep breathing when they feel overwhelmed can support emotional well-being. CrossTrain Kids has extensive experience with creating calming corners in classrooms. Watch for a blog specifically addressing this!
Incorporating breathing tools into the school day is a very simple yet profoundly effective way to enhance student well-being and educational outcomes. It does not require much time and is a completely free tool! Research supports the physiological and psychological benefits of mindful breathing, showing improvements in focus, emotional regulation, and academic performance. By teaching students how to harness the power of their breath, we provide them with lifelong skills to navigate stress, enhance their concentration, and succeed both academically and personally.
