Mindfulness is defined as paying attention on purpose, to the present moment, without judgment.
In short, when our brain is calm and focused, it works better. |
But what is Mindfulness?Here is a short introduction:
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Mindfulness Tools:At School:
Collaborative for Academic, Social & Emotional Learning The Free Mindfulness Project Mindful Teachers Move with Me Program Websites: Mind Up Calm Classroom Mindful Schools Mindful Life Project At Home:
GoZen! Mind Yeti Child Mind Institute Books: I am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde I Can Handle It (Mindful Mantras) by Laurie Wright Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids by Eline Snel Parenting Books:
Extension Activities:
Printables:
Marzano Research
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Neuroplasticity & MindfulnessThe word neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity, comes from the fact that our brains are able to bend and flex like plastic. With enough time and effort, we can create new neural pathways. This idea is very much related to Growth Mindset, but is also an essential piece to consider when implementing a mindfulness practice with yourself and/or your students.
Mindfulness is a skill just like any other one, so there needs to be the time to build up to a higher level of focus. Over time, our brains become trained to be aware of certain stimuli. If we are not careful, we can become too hyper-sensitive to noises and motions around us. With the practice of mindfulness, we can re-learn to hear the stimuli in that moment, but then learn to let it go with no judgement in order to be ready to learn. 
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Relaxation Tools:
YouTube channel: Fablefy
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4 Different Breathing Exercises The first step to calming our brains when feeling big feelings is to practice breathing. Watch the video to learn a few ways to slow their inner speed! Mindful Minute by GoZen! This is a one minute exercise that uses a gong to focus on while take deep breaths - good tool if you have little time. You could also use a chime or bell you already have in your room! |
Belly Breathing Again, the first step to calming our brains when feeling any big feelings is to take a DEEP belly breath. This is a strategy that we practice every single guidance lesson because it is so easy, but also happens to be the most important! |
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Body Scan by GoZen! Body Scans are a wonderful way to ground our body by acknowledging each body part and the little things around us. |