Mindfulness has become a bit of a 'catchword' lately because it is really really effective at reducing stress and anxiety. It can also help you to concentrate, relax and be more productive. ‘Mindfulness’ simply means paying attention to the present moment.
It's probably going to feel weird at first, but the best way to decide if mindfulness is for you is to give it a crack! And then practice, practice! Below are some different ways you can give it a try, plus tips on what to do if you’re finding it tricky to get the hang of.
In this video young people discuss their experiences practicing mindfulness, and how mindfulness has benefited different aspects of their lives
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A great intro into meditation to help you relax and control those thoughts
Practice a relaxed sense of focus with this cruisy 1 minute meditation
The more awareness we can bring to our day, the greater calm, clarity, and contentment we’ll feel. Designed for beginners this guided mindfulness exercise is a good option as it provides instruction, encouragement, and support
Combat negative feelings and control thoughts by learning this breathing technique
A very cruisy 2 and a half minute meditation designed and written by a young person for young people
Nicole Cardoza's practice is designed specifically to teach young people how to pay attention to their body and the world around them
Staying active can help you sleep better, manage stress and boost your mood. Find a way to keep active that you enjoy and incorporate this into your regular routine.
From getting a better night’s sleep and increasing focus during the day to busting stress and decreasing anxiety levels, these guided meditation apps below are a great way to help you relax and clear your mind
It’s totally normal to feel stressed or anxious from time to time, but there are lots of things you can do to feel a bit better. Check out these easy tips and techniques below to make relaxing a little easier...
Grounding can be an effective way to deal with stress and help you refocus on what's happening in the present moment. Give some of these a try
Have you ever noticed that feeling stressed or anxious often coincides with dwelling on the past or worrying about the future? Use the '5-4-3-2-1" exercise to help focus your mind on the present moment
If you're having a tough day here is a quick reminder for you...now read it again!
Here's a simple , everyday mindfulness practice. Make a 'high five' with one outstretched hand. Use your pointer finger to trace along the outline of each finger starting at the base of your thumb. Slowly inhale as you move your pointer finger up each finger, and then exhale as you move the finger down the other side
Mindfulness is a way to notice the sensations in your body and the sounds around you. This adaption of the Wheel of Awareness is a way to notice our experience and find a way to organise it in our mind
A simple but effective way to control your breathing. Inhale through your nose for a count of 4. Pause for a count of 4. Exhale for a count of 4. Repeat 4 times.
If you’re looking to wind down or get your mind off everything that’s going on at school or in your world, watching some of these vids could be great for you. Cute, funny, or motivational - whatever you feel like!
A very cool little 3 minute speech by Ashton Kutcher on all things kindness and generosity
For all the bodyboarders/surfers out there - some fun shore break times when for its flat and onshore
Have you met Ricochet the world's first surf-therapy Dog? If you haven't check this out
Lacking some motivation? Watch this short speech by young person named Steven about how to overcome obstacles you might face in your life
Love this little video by Amy Rosenthal about the impact small acts of kindness can have on the world.
If you’re feeling distressed and want to talk to someone right now, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, Lifeline on 13 11 14, or one of the other contacts under the Further Help? tab at the top of this page. They are available to discuss whatever is going on with you, and are trained to help you figure out what to do.