Blowing bubbles, besides being a fun activity, can be a beneficial breathing exercise.
Many people benefit from doing regular breathing exercises. Children with cystic fibrosis use them to clear secretions from their lungs. Musicians who play wind or brass instruments, as well as asthmatics, may incorporate breathing exercises to increase respiratory control. Some people just use breathing exercises as relaxation techniques. Turn these exercises into games and fun activities to make them more enjoyable, whether for you or your children.
Blowing Bubbles
Begin by inhaling deeply. Forming your lips into an "O" shape, exhale in gentle, but steady streams to blow bubbles. This can be done using a homemade soapy solution or pre-made bubble mix and a bubble wand. Repeat three to four times. When repeating this activity over time, the length of each exhale and amount of bubbles should slowly increase as breathing technique improves.
Blowing up Balloons
Blowing up balloons is very conducive to deep, steady breathing but requires a decent level of lung strength and control. This is not an ideal activity for those with little respiratory control or for young children. Blow up several balloons in a row, concentrating your breath, and never blowing out all of your air at once. Do not continue if you experience dizziness or light-headedness.
Straw Painting
Pour several very small puddles of paint onto a piece of paper or paper plate. Using a straw held close to the paint, blow steady breaths to paint in different directions. Try to make a shape using the control of your breath, or create patterns of different colors to design a modern piece of art. You can expect some splattered paint when performing this activity, so plan accordingly.
Blowing out Candles
Place several free-standing candles on a table or countertop and light them. Using short, focused breaths, blow on each flame to extinguish without inhaling between puffs. Relight the candles and repeat the activity from further away, using stronger breaths to blow out each flame. You can achieve the same results by holding your hand about 6 inches away from your face and blowing on each of your fingertips with the same controlled breaths.
Paper Soccer
Clear a tabletop to use as a soccer "field" with designated goals on either end. Crumple a piece of paper to serve as the soccer ball. Use a straw to channel , to blow the ball towards the goal, and challenge a teammate to see who can be the first to score 10 goals. Try the same activity without the straw and see if the same results can be achieved.
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