The Sunbeam That Warms Each Part

Lying down, children imagine a sunbeam coming through the window and warming one body part after another, from feet to head, until each one is soft and still. It works on body awareness and guided relaxation.

How to play

1. Lie face up with eyes closed; the teacher says a warm sunbeam is coming through the window (1 min).
2. The sunbeam lands on the feet: wiggle them a little, then let them rest warm and still (1 min).
3. It climbs up the legs and onto the tummy, which rises and falls slowly as we breathe (1 min).
4. It reaches the hands and arms, which feel heavy and fall asleep on the floor (1 min).
5. Last, it warms the face: smooth forehead, loose mouth, calm eyes (1 min).
6. The sunbeam leaves, we stretch our whole body like a cat and sit up slowly (1 min).

Rules

• I listen to the teacher's voice with my eyes closed.
• I only move the part where the sun is.
• My spot is mine; I don't touch anyone.
• I get up slowly at the end.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: seated in a chair with hands resting on the legs.
• Autism: if closing eyes is unsettling, they look at one spot on the ceiling or a sun picture card.
• Hearing loss: the teacher stays in view and points to each body part; eyes can stay open.

Learning goals

• Mentally scan the parts of the body.
• Relax each part on its own.
• Listen to and follow a guided relaxation.

Teacher tip

Read slowly with long pauses and a warm voice; if you can, lower the blinds and let in just a little light. Some kids actually fall asleep: wake them gently by whispering their name.

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