Breathe with the Bubbles

Blowing bubbles may seem like a simple or even childlike activity, but in the right context, it can be a powerful therapeutic tool — especially for those navigating trauma, loss, chronic stress, or emotional dysregulation.

For over five years, I’ve shared Take a Bubble Break Cards and bubbles with vulnerable communities — including hospice patients, trauma survivors, students, and individuals facing mental health challenges — and I’ve witnessed firsthand the calm, connection, and clarity that can emerge through this gentle practice.


The act of blowing bubbles regulates the breath by encouraging slow, deep exhales — a natural way to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and reduce anxiety.

This intentional breathwork helps shift the body out of a fight-or-flight response and into a more grounded, centered state. Bubbles also serve as a visual anchor to the present moment, gently guiding attention away from intrusive thoughts or emotional overwhelm. For children, survivors, and individuals under immense pressure, bubbles provide a moment of mindfulness that’s both engaging and non-threatening.

Beyond the physiological benefits, bubbles tap into something emotionally powerful: joy, innocence, and play. Especially for those in hospice care or recovering from trauma, the experience of delight — however fleeting — can be a reminder of their humanity and capacity for peace. Symbolically, bubbles offer a ritualistic moment to let go: participants are invited to breathe in their fears or worries and exhale them into a floating, shimmering sphere that slowly drifts away. It’s simple. But it works.

Regulates the Nervous System
Promotes Mindfulness and Grounding
Evokes Joy, Innocence and Play
Low Cost, High Impact

Regulates the Nervous System:

  • Encourages slow, deep exhales — essential for calming the body and reducing anxiety.
  • Activates the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest” response).
  • Helps shift individuals out of panic, fight-or-flight, or emotional overwhelm.

Promotes Mindfulness & Grounding:

  • Bubbles serve as a gentle, visual focus point to bring people into the present moment.
  • Helpful for interrupting spiraling thoughts or dissociation in trauma survivors.
  • Offers a non-verbal, accessible form of mindfulness.

Evokes Joy, Innocence, and Play:

  • Connects to feelings of childhood safety and delight.
  • Reintroduces lightness in emotionally heavy settings like hospices or crisis centers.
  • Reminds participants they are still capable of joy and calm — even briefly.

Read Our Blog: The Unexpected Power of Bubbles