Big Belly Breathing

11.3 Bed Time Guided Meditation in Annecy: Fun Theme

Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely

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This is a BEDTIME MEDITATION focusing on the theme of Fun, and set in Annecy, France

Kids are guided into a very relaxing moment at home in their cozy beds, where they focus on their breathing while listening to an audio quiet time activity. 

This meditation can be used as a nighttime routine before bed is to help them ease into slumber land, or also before nap.

The Breathing Practice for this month is Lightning Bolt breathing.


Intro/Outro music by Jef Shadoan



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Big Belly Breathing (BBB) is a bilingual audio program for kids (and the grownups who love them), founded by Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely. Featuring episodes in English and French, BBB focuses on mindfulness, health, and wellness—inviting young listeners into joyful, imaginative, and restorative practices.

As a Physical Education and meditation teacher, parent of bilingual kids, yoga instructor, social-emotional learning facilitator, and holistic health & wellness coach, Vanessa created Big Belly Breathing to help children establish daily habits that nurture both body and mind.

Healthy Habits = Happy Kids

Through each episode, children are gently guided to:

  • Breathe mindfully
  • Stretch their creativity
  • Build emotional awareness
  • Practice gratitude
  • And enjoy mini-moments of deep rest that help them reset, restore, and recalibrate.

In today’s busy, screen-heavy world, BBB offers kids a chance to feel centered, grounded, and good—helping them create their own self-care rituals, routines, and wellness habits that can last a lifetime.

These tools support mental clarity, physical health, and emotional resilience, setting kids up for more joy today and as they grow into adulthood.

But it’s not just for kids!

BBB also includes special episodes designed for ...

#2 Nighttime meditation in Annecy: "Swan Tales: A Magical Annecy Adventure with Lightning Bolt Breathing"

Good evening! Bonsoir and welcome to Big Belly Breathing, bienvenue to health!

My name is Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, and I’m delighted to guide you on this bedtime journey where we’ll visit the enchanting city of Annecy, a place filled with nighttime wonder. This charming French alpine city, known for its picturesque canals and beautiful lake, is perfect for our magical adventure tonight.

Settle into your bed, get cozy under your blanket, squeeze your lovey or stuffed animal, close your eyes, and let’s begin our adventure under the starlit skies of Annecy with a special breathing technique called Lightning Bolt Breathing to help us relax and get ready for our journey.

Imagine a brilliant lightning bolt striking down from the sky with each breath in, and the energy spreading through your body with each breath out. Let’s start. Breathe in deeply through your nose as you visualize the lightning bolt, and breathe out through your mouth as you feel the energy flow through you. Continue this breathing, feeling more energized and relaxed with each breath. Once more, deep breath in and deep breath out. 

Now, imagine you are standing by the edge of Lake Annecy. The moonlight dances on the water, creating a sparkling pathway. You hear the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore and the distant sounds of the town settling into the night. The night air is cool and filled with the fresh scent of pine trees from the surrounding hills.

As you stand by the lake, a magical animal companion appears by your side. It’s a graceful swan, gliding effortlessly across the water with feathers as white as snow and eyes that sparkle like stars. This swan is not just any swan; it has a magical ability to guide and protect you on your journey through Annecy. You feel a gentle connection with the swan, and together, you begin your adventure.


You stroll along the lake with the swan gliding beside you. You pass through the charming streets of Annecy’s old town, with its colorful buildings and medieval architecture. The swan leads you through the narrow, cobblestone alleys and past the beautiful canals that wind through the town. The gentle glow of lanterns lights your path, adding a touch of magic to the evening.

Next, you wander towards the Palais de l’Isle, an old castle in the middle of the canal that looks like something out of a fairy tale. The swan gracefully guides you across the bridge, and you marvel at the castle’s reflection in the calm waters below. The castle stands quietly, a sentinel of history and beauty.

As you continue your journey, the swan takes you to the peaceful Jardin de l’Europe. The garden is quiet and serene, with tall trees casting gentle shadows over the pathways. The swan sits beside you, offering comfort as you take in the tranquility of the garden.

Now, imagine finding a cozy spot in the garden or along the lake. Sit down and take a deep breath in, feeling the peace and tranquility of this moment in Annecy. Think about all the wonderful things in your life – your family, your friends, your favorite activities. Take a moment to picture something for which you are grateful, and feel the love in your heart grow bigger. Feel the abundance of love and happiness surrounding you, just like the beauty of Annecy. As you breathe out, imagine sharing this abundance with everyone around you. The swan curls up beside you, its presence bringing a sense of calm and contentment.

It’s time to leave the garden and make your way back to the lake. The swan leads you safely back, guiding you with its gentle presence. Take one last look at the sparkling lake and the peaceful night. Feel the cool breeze, hear the soft sounds of the water, and carry with you the peace and joy of this magical place.

You arrive back at the lake where you began, feeling grateful for this journey through Annecy with the swan. Take a moment to thank Annecy and its beautiful places for reminding you of the abundance in your life and giving special thanks to your magical companion. 

Goodnight, sleep tight, and let the wonders of Annecy watch over your dreams. Bonne nuit et faites de beaux rêves! 🦢🌙