Mindfulness

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is...

Mindfulness is a particular way of paying attention. It involves purposefully bringing awareness to one's experience.
Mindfulness practices can be applied to any experience: sensations in the body (movement/walking), thoughts, sights, sounds, or tastes.
Mindful awareness has specific qualities that make it different from just being attentive.
These characteristics are: Intentionality to be attentive, Openness to be present and honest with what is happening in the moment, and Observing what is happening rather than trying to control experience. The goal of mindfulness is not to get rid of thoughts. It will teach you that thoughts are just thoughts.

Benefits of Mindfulness

Helps increase attention span/focus
Helps build compassion/empathy
Decreases stress responses
Helps regulate emotions
Helps to better impulse control
Helps with sleep
Decreases anxiety and depression
Aides in self-awareness
Increases memory

Putting Mindfulness Into Practice

Mindfulness Activities

Mindfulness Activities for Students

YouTube Mindfulness Practices

Bubble Bounce! Mindfulness for Children (Mindful Looking)

The 5-4-3-2-1 Method: A Grounding Exercise to Manage Anxiety

Happenings Around the District

SEL Day at Devonshire Elementary

Teachers at Devonshire Elementary were treated with a mindfulness practice during their most recent Social Emotional Learning Day.

Teachers signed up for 10 minute sessions during their lunch to learn a quick body scan and to get some much needed relaxation time. They were able to use essential oils, have some mints, and were gifted a sensory strip sticker. Everyone left happy and rejuvenated!