“Just breathe” and “Just Feel” are more on our carpet, looked at, than on the bookshelf.
At first, I fell in love with “Just Breathe” and “Just Feel” by Mallika Chopra because of the beautiful illustrations by Brenna Vaughan.
Then, I read them with my daughters; we worked with the exercises they offered and were grateful for how the information and exercises are offered.
Both books offer simple guided instructions for children and teens. Meditations, mindfulness exercises, movement, how to be attentive to their emotions, their bodies, and how to find their center.
They gradually build up, providing more information, and expanding on the tools offered.
Children can read them and experiment step-by-step, or they can open a random page and try the offered exercise. The variety is excellent, allowing children alternatives to choose from. Each child can take the techniques that work for them.
“Just Breathe” by Mallika Chopra
“Just Breathe” focuses on the breath. It offers breathing techniques to reduce stress, fall asleep, or manage pain; movement techniques for centering; inviting children to allow silence around them, opening the door to listen within; guiding questions of who we are, and more.
“Just Feel” by Mallika Chopra
“Just Feel” offers guidance and exercises that bring legitimacy to the reader’s feelings, bodily needs, choices of health, words, and friends, and methods to care for oneself.
Amazing illustrations by Brenna Vaughan.
Illustrations are often what distinguishes between a good book and a great book.
Both books are illustrated by Brenna Vaughan. Beyond being beautiful, they capture the essence of each exercise offered, complementing the text and showing how easy it can be.
“Just Be You” by Mallika Chopra
I recently learned Mallika published a third book in this series called “Just Be You.”
Enjoying the first two, I am sure this book is also a treasure. I’ll refer to it once we get it and experience it.
Our family experience with “Just breathe” & “just Feel”
My daughters return to “Just Breathe” a lot. Beyond being a delight to look at, it offers them a repeated reminder of important basic exercises. Ones that should be practiced daily by all of us.
These books offer a compassionate approach. The techniques are explained at a young reader’s level and in a respectful manner to these readers. Offering, suggesting, and explaining why each exercise, question, or technique is important. Moreso, it offers the children and teens the responsibility for their wellbeing.
I find that guiding our children to be responsible for their health and well-being is a key to their happiness. Mallika’s true belief in children and their abilities comes out in every word.
I wish I had these books when I was growing up, and I am grateful that my daughters do. Thank you, Mallika and Brenna, and all those behind the scenes for bringing these books to life.
Highly recommended!
Find out about more recommended books HERE.
