Public preview
Bunny Breath
A playful breathing technique for kids 3-7: three short bunny sniffs, then one long exhale.
Goal
Give the child an autonomic regulation tool he loves — because it's a game, not an exercise.
Steps
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1
Sit on the floor with your child and say: "Want me to teach you bunny breath?"
Expected Outcome
Immediate
A smile during practice — vagus nerve activates, cortisol drops within 90 seconds.
Evidence base
School: Polyvagal Theory + Mindful Parenting
Founders: Stephen Porges · Susan Kaiser Greenland (2011)
Polyvagal theory (Porges) shows long exhalation activates parasympathetic branch and calms the nervous system. Greenland applied this with kids in "The Mindful Child."
Keywords
Frequently asked questions
How long does "Bunny Breath" take?
This exercise takes about 3 minutes, practiced with another person in a Somatic format.
When will I notice the effect of "Bunny Breath"?
A smile during practice — vagus nerve activates, cortisol drops within 90 seconds. In the short term: Within a week, your child requests bunny breath himself when frustrated.
Is "Bunny Breath" evidence-based?
Yes — it draws on Polyvagal Theory + Mindful Parenting (Stephen Porges, Susan Kaiser Greenland (2011)). Polyvagal theory (Porges) shows long exhalation activates parasympathetic branch and calms the nervous system. Greenland applied this with kids in "The Mindful Child."
Is "Bunny Breath" suitable for beginners?
Its difficulty level is: Beginner. No external tools required — it can be practiced directly inside the app.
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