Polar Bear Breathing
Polar bear breathing: students imitate a polar bear with slow breaths, a hug and a stretch.
How to play
- Sitting or standing, imagine being polar bears on the ice.
- Breathe in through the nose opening the arms wide.
- Breathe out through the mouth hugging yourself to keep warm.
- Repeat 6 times and finish stretching like a bear waking up.
Rules
- Slow, gentle breathing.
- Silence during the exercise.
Variations
Easier
Three reps.
Standard
Six reps.
Harder
Count 4 when breathing in and 6 when breathing out.
Adaptations
- Asthma: comfortable breaths without forcing.
- Limited mobility: seated version.
Learning goals
- Lower heart rate.
- Learn to control breathing.
PatioLab has "Polar Bear Breathing" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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