Faith CoLab: Tapestry of Faith: Sing to the Power: A Social Justice Program for Children Grades 4-5

Activity 3: Breath Meditation

Activity time: 8 minutes

Materials for Activity

Preparation for Activity

  • Optional: Consider providing pillows or mats to help everyone sit comfortably on the floor. Spread them far enough apart that participants will not be tempted to interact during the meditation.

Description of Activity

The most obvious power of air is that it moves through our bodies constantly, and we depend on it for our lives. This meditation allows participants to experience stillness and focus on the power of air.

Invite children to get comfortable, out of arms' reach of each other, on the floor, a pillow or mat if available, or on a chair. Read the meditation (Leader Resource 1) slowly, leaving pauses between sentences for participants to experience stillness and the power of air.

After the meditation, leave a moment of silence. Then, discuss with questions such as:

  • Did you feel quiet inside during the meditation?
  • Do you feel different now than before the meditation?
  • Can you think of situations where it would help you to focus on your breathing, and the air flowing in and out of your body?

Explain, in these words or your own:

  • It can be hard to keep your mind clear and still, especially if you are worried, angry or overwhelmed.
  • Having a practice that helps you get still, like focusing on your breathing or clenching and then relaxing your hands, can help you focus and get in a better frame of mind.