Breathe It Out
Deep breathing is the NUMBER ONE cool-down strategy because it works FAST and you can do it ANYWHERE.
When you are angry, your breathing gets fast and shallow. Deep breathing tells your brain, 'Hey, calm down. We are safe. We do not need to fight.'
Try these breathing exercises:
BUBBLE BREATH: Pretend you are blowing the biggest bubble ever. Breathe in slowly through your nose (1-2-3-4). Breathe out super slowly through your mouth like you are blowing a giant bubble (1-2-3-4-5-6). Do this 5 times.
STAR BREATH: Hold up your hand like a star. Use your other finger to trace up one finger while breathing in, then trace down while breathing out. Continue for all 5 fingers.
BELLY BREATH: Put your hand on your belly. Breathe in so deep that your belly pushes your hand out like a balloon inflating. Breathe out slowly and feel your belly go flat. Repeat 5 times.
After just 5 deep breaths, you will feel your body calming down. Your heart slows, your fists unclench, and your brain starts thinking clearly again.