Breathing | Mindful Minutes
About
This Mindful Minutes video focuses on breathing. Practicing intentional breathing helps the body and the mind feel calmer and more relaxed when faced with big emotions and stressful situations.
WQED Education teamed up with Open Up Pittsburgh to bring you Mindful Minutes! These videos can be used in the classroom, library, or any learning space to help everyone get centered and calmed down to start or end the day or activity. Each video starts with a breathing exercise and then dives into an activity to practice the theme.
Credits: Open Up Pgh and WQED
Standards
CASEL SEL Standards (Pre‑K–5)
1. Self‑Awareness (SA)
- SA‑1 – Identify and name emotions before and after breathing practice.
- SA‑2 – Notice physical cues (heartbeat, tension, calmness) during mindful breathing.
- SA‑3 – Recognize how breathing affects mood and energy.
- SA‑4 – Build accurate self‑perception through reflection on internal states.
2. Self‑Management (SM)
- SM‑1 – Use breathing techniques to manage stress or strong emotions.
- SM‑2 – Demonstrate impulse control by slowing down and focusing on breath.
- SM‑3 – Practice calming strategies to reduce anxiety and increase focus.
- SM‑4 – Sustain attention throughout the breathing exercise.
3. Social Awareness (SO)
- SO‑1 – Recognize that others may need quiet or space during breathing practice.
- SO‑2 – Show empathy for peers who use breathing to calm themselves.
- SO‑3 – Respect diverse emotional experiences and coping strategies.
- SO‑4 – Understand that everyone benefits from mindful breathing.
4. Relationship Skills (RS)
- RS‑1 – Listen actively to instructions and maintain a peaceful environment.
- RS‑2 – Cooperate with peers by participating calmly in shared breathing.
- RS‑3 – Resolve small conflicts more effectively after calming the body.
- RS‑4 – Offer encouragement or support to classmates practicing mindfulness.
5. Responsible Decision‑Making (DM)
- DM‑1 – Identify choices that support personal well‑being (e.g., using breathing when upset).
- DM‑2 – Make decisions that help maintain a calm environment for others.
- DM‑3 – Consider how their behavior affects classmates’ ability to focus.
- DM‑4 – Reflect on which breathing strategies help them feel centered.

