​

Mindfulness

 

The practice of mindfulness is about observing your thoughts for exactly what they are thoughts. When you practice being mindful you begin to realize your thoughts do not define you or control you- they are simply thoughts. Once you can observe your thoughts from a detached manner you can let go of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness is kind awareness of the present moment without judgment. Focusing on the present, not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

 

Benefits of Mindfulness for Children

 

Children experience more awareness of their body, thoughts and emotions

Children are better able to stay more focused

Children can experience less stress and anxiety

Mindfulness can improve impulse control and interpersonal skills

Executive function can increase

Can Improve memory

Can Help Make better decisions

Can Help creativity

Can Improve resilience and confidence

 

 

Mindfulness training has shown it can lead to structural changes in the brain that develop and enhance the qualities of:

Compassion, Kindness and Patience

​

 

Ways to easily fit mindfulness into a daily schedule:

 

Express gratitude

Enjoy a cup of juice or a favorite drink

Deep breathing

Draw/Color

Listen to music

Talk a walk and notice your surroundings

Put down the phone or walk away from the computer

Close your eyes and visualize

Fun activities to promote mindfulness

Dancing

Playing games like Simon Says

Take a nature walk

Mindful Eating

Gratitude Journal

​

​

Emotions are “energy in motion” they are not lasting or permanent. Mindfulness tools can help show that even shaken emotions will change and settle down.

​

                

​

 

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​

 

 

 

​

​

 

​

​

 

 

 

​

 

​

 

​

 

                     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

                     Body Scan

​

​

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOP

Stop what you are doing put a pause on your thoughts, your actions, and your internal monologue.

Take  a few breaths. Breathe in deep, breathe out, blow out the candles. Bring yourself into the present moment.

Observe what is going on inside of you, outside of you?What sensations are you feeling, hearing, touching. How do you feel, what is your mind and body telling you?

Proceed Move forward with more non- judgemental awareness and intent..

 

RAIN helps when working with emotions.  

Recognize

Accept

Investigate

Not Identify

​