A Mindful Approach to Education Well-Being for You and the Children in Your Care

A Little Bit About Me…

What might you get from today? What is mindfulness? How is it of value to you and to the children you teach? Some mindful ideas to get started! A quick collaboration to share well-being practices

In a Nutshell –What is Mindfulness? The term mindfulness has many strands but in a nutshell it means living in the present moment, noticing and being aware of the here and now in a non- judgmental way.

What it isn’t…..

A Quick Practice

‘Worry is just about the worst form of mental activity there is – next to hate, which is deeply self destructive.’ – Neale Donald Walsch

Is it just another buzz word or the latest fad? Jon Kabat-Zinn founded stress reduction clinic in 1979, subsequently developing MBSR 8 week course. Research suggests mindfulness reduces: Stress Anxiety Depression Physical pain (see YouTube video ‘Mindfulness works – here’s the evidence’) https://youtu.be/ORsQ7woze8w Research suggests mindfulness improves: Empathy and compassion for self and others Relationships Decision making Emotional intelligence Performance and attention Resilience

What does it mean for us as educators? First of all we are human and often forget to take care of ourselves When we practice mindful living and self care we can enhance the wellbeing of others A better understanding of our emotions and those around us Bring calm to a hectic daily life Reduces catastrophizing, realise when we need to ground ourselves Respond rather than react Control emotions during stressful life or classroom moments

What does it mean for children? Ensures development of the whole child. Equips children with various tools and techniques they can draw on to deal with life's difficulties and stresses. Focus and attention improves. Develops resilience. Teaches empathy and compassion Runs alongside Global Citizenship lessons. Helps them label and understand emotions from a young age.

Some Ideas….

Mindful Munching

Mindful Minute

Mini Mindful Movement

Some Reading for you…

The Well-Being Umbrella… 5 Ways of well-being Connect & Keep Learning

Questions… www.mindfulteachinguae.com Mindful Miss Green @mindfulmissg