A little mindfulness intro...

One of the first formal mindfulness exercises we do with the kids is The Silence Candle.  When we sit quietly with our own thoughts, allowing all outward focus to fall away, we get a chance to check in with how we feel.  

It is so helpful for kids to have a break from the ongoing stimulus they receive all day long. Once we are better at listening to our bodies we can start to work on ways to use that information to make wise choices.

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What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness techniques have been used for thousands of years and in recent decades a secular mindfulness trend has brought this work into the mainstream. 

Mindfulness is both a state and a practice. You can show mindful qualities in your daily life and you can also intentionally practice mindfulness techniques. By practicing formal exercises, mindfulness can become a healthy habit.  

Why mindfulness?
Ultimately mindfulness is about our well-being and the well-being of those around us.

Here are some of the aims of mindfulness in schools: 

• Greater self-awareness for both teachers and students
• Lower stress levels for staff
• Happier school environment 
• Healthy sense of community with better connection between staff and students.

Our message to the kids:
"We are here for you. We will talk, move and sometimes we will be quiet. We will teach you skills that will help you throughout your day to be an even better you. We know life can sometimes be hard, it is for everyone. We hope that what we share with you in our mindfulness classes will make you feel more capable of handling these ups and downs." From Erica and Johanna at Mindful Mover.

Questions? If Mindful Mover is visiting your school and you have questions - please do not hesitate to contact us at johanna@mindfulmover.co.nz

Mindful Mover brings evidence based mindfulness into schools and we also teach private classes. If you would like to know more about the basis of our work you can look at Mindful Schools and Relax Kids with whom we have trained.