It is no secret that breathing is an important aspect of being alive, and breath can be used as a sensory regulation tool for ourselves, especially during periods of our lives where we are processing and experiencing grief.
Not only do we experience a literal pause in our day when we stop to take a deep breath, we can affect our bodies physiologically as increasing the length of our exhale can lower our heart rate (Ramakrishnan & Anusha). Breathing techniques have been used by humans for years to check in with ourselves and is a coping tool for times of our lives where we are experiencing grief and stress that we can do any where we are.
When I have found myself during difficult times in my life, like when I lost my cat Queenie, I often have a feeling of “What do I do next?” I think of Frozen II’s “Do The Next Right Thing,” and that might be taking a moment to breathe, nourish your body, pause, and feel whatever you are feeling.
Below are three resources to help you breathe immediately:
I wrote a song called “Breathe In, Belly Rises” where I prompt deep breaths focusing on breathing deep in our stomach.
Yoga With Adriene is a YouTube channel of accessible at-home yoga that has helped me connect with my body and through difficult times in my life. She has a breathing video below.
Music for Kiddos provides resources for music educators and music therapists (and I get the honor of working for them part time!) Stephanie Leavell wrote a beautiful song to prompt breathing for kids, and I think it is great for all ages too.
Hopefully these breathing resources bring you some immediate relief and help you in your self-care journey during periods of grief or other difficult times in your life. No matter what is going on or where you are, you can check in and support yourself with your own breath. If you are experiencing the loss of a pet, you are not alone, and your grief is as valid as any other form of grief.
If you are in crisis, considering suicide or need help dealing with a crisis, call Colorado Crisis Services at this toll-free number, 1-844 493-TALK (8255), or text TALK to 38255, to speak with a trained professional or call or text 988.
Works Cited
Ramakrishnan, A. G., & Anusha, A. S. WHY IS SLOW, DEEP BREATHING GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH?.