kitten relaxing

Actively relaxing

Taking time to relax is important for our mental health. Relaxation can be as simple as listening to music or quiet time reading a book. Some children and young people find relaxation quite easy, whereas for others, relaxation needs to be learned and practised.

Some everyday ways children and young people can choose to relax include:

  • drawing or colouring
  • having a bath or shower
  • listening to music
  • playing with friends or family
  • playing with soft toys or pets
  • puzzle books
  • reading
  • watching TV

As well as these, it may be helpful for children or young people to use specific relaxation exercises.

About relaxation exercises

Relaxation exercises can help children and young people feel calm and improve their emotional wellbeing. In situations where a child or young person is experiencing difficult emotions, such as anger or anxiety, relaxation exercises can help manage the physical and emotional responses to these feelings. The exercises may help distract them from worrying thoughts and reduce tension in their body. Relaxation can also help children and young people deal with stressful situations, e.g. exams, or cope with a significant change, loss or bereavement.

Some things to think about when trying relaxation exercises with children and young people:

  • It’s important to think about the individual child or young person and find exercises that you think will work well for them, as not all exercises will suit everyone.
  • Remember they may also have their own preferences, e.g. a male or female voice in guided relaxation exercises.
  • Try to find a quiet, comfortable space where they won’t be disturbed.
  • Be aware of the time and place, e.g. home or school, as this may affect how well a relaxation exercise works.
  • If the child or young person gets distressed for any reason, just stop the exercise, and comfort and reassure them.

Some relaxation exercises to try

Calm breathing

This is one of the simplest types of relaxation exercise, and is sometimes known as deep breathing or belly breathing.

Guided relaxation

This focuses on the mind rather than the body by using stories describing relaxing places that encourage feelings of calm.

Mindfulness

Being mindful is about being fully aware of living in the present moment and can help calm the mind.

Progressive muscle relaxation

This is used to help notice the difference between tension and relaxation in different parts of the body. At first it may feel uncomfortable or strange for the child or young person to be focusing on their body, but this will become easier and can become enjoyable over time.