Simply put, mindfulness means paying attention. Paying attention to how we are feeling in a moment and increasing our awareness to outside factors that impact our current state. It can help us feel less stressed, more calm, happier and more ready to learn.
What is a mindful body?
A mindful body is relaxed and focused. If seated in a chair, a mindful body can include:
back straight, off of the back of the seat
feet flat on floor
hands resting on legs
shoulders back and down
deep breaths in and out
When can you practice being mindful?
Transitions (i.e. in the classroom, starting homework, starting a new sport/activity, etc.)
Before bed or first thing in the morning
When beginning to feel a big emotion (i.e. nervous, frustrated, angry, etc.).
What will students Do during their Mindful Body Lesson?
Students will be asked to practice sitting with a Mindful Body. This includes sitting with our legs criss-crossed, back straight, and hands gentle in our lap.
We will read the story Peaceful Piggy Meditation by Kerry Lee MacLean
Students will learn how to complete a Rainbow Walk activity as a mindful activity they can use anywhere to feel more calm and focused.
RAINBOW WALK ACTIVITY
Slowly and quietly walk through your current setting (i.e. the playground, the classroom, etc.)
Starting with the color red, locate one item for each color of the rainbow.
When completed, take a deep breath and check to see if you feel more calm and ready.
Repeat as needed.
Students will then practice sitting with their Mindful Body and will follow along with the video below.
Additional Mindfulness Materials
SWAYING TREES ACTIVITY
Swaying Trees can be an activity used to calm your body and "untangle your branches".
Sit tall or stand with feet apart.
With your eyes open, imagine you are a tree in the wind and your arms are the branches.
Swing your arms side to side and begin to bend at the waist while keeping your arms swinging.
Come up slowly and keep your arms swinging.
Slowly begin to slow your arms to a "gentle breeze" movement.
Finish the exercise by taking three slow breaths and stopping all movement.
Take a moment to notice how your body and mind feels different.
Link to Mindful Teachers: site offering resources and activities.
Link to Mindful Schools: site offering videos and books for supporting a mindful school.