Minute Masterclass Episode 126

Welcome to your one-minute masterclass. I’m Andrea Trench, founder of DiscoverDance and creator of the Foundations Course for Early Childhood Dance Educators and the DiscoverDance Experience Membership. Today, we are exploring the first pattern of the BrainDance: breath. The first thing we did when our life began was breathe. Breathing increases the flow of oxygen to our body which decreases cortisol levels, quiets our minds, and calms our bodies. Bringing intentional breathing exercises to our young dancers allows them the opportunity to become aware of their breath and teaches them the power of their breath. This skill can help regulate big emotions and empower them to be in control of their bodies. 

For breath, we can inhale as we port de bras our arms up to fifth position and exhale as we float them back down to bras bas. We can use imagery of smelling a flower, blowing out candles, or blowing up a balloon. We can use reinforcement props such as scarves or expandable balls to manipulate as we guide our little ones through deep breathing. A few big breaths is all you need before moving onto the next pattern. For more information, to enroll in the Foundations Course or join the DiscoverDance Experience, visit DiscoverDance.com.