The Balloon Technique
The balloon technique is a personal favorite and is enjoyed by many. It works well because it trains the body to breathe into the abdomen as well as provides a distraction for the mind, beginning to refocus it from scattered thoughts.
Giving a calming color to the balloon like blue, purple, or green strengthens the connection to the balloon and allows the brain to better picture the balloon in the abdomen.
Avoid high-intensity colors to reduce stress and anxiety when practicing this technique.
Repeat this again. (2nd time)
(3rd time) Repeat.
(4th time) Repeat.
(5th time) Repeat.
When you are ready, bring your attention and awareness back to the room you are sitting or lying in. When you are ready, wiggle your fingers and toes. With a soft smile on your lips, whenever you are ready you open your eyes. Continuing to feel calm and at peace within.
**It is important to use words such as expand and contract, inflate and deflate.
DO NOT USE phrases such as “the balloon blows up more this time,” or other negative sentences. Blowing up a balloon is not relaxing, so it shifts the mind into a negative connotation.