Mindfulness allows us to connect with the present moment and become more in-tune with our thoughts and feelings, bringing a sense of calm to everyday life. Whilst it is a useful practice for adults, mindfulness for kids is also very beneficial. It helps them to process their emotions whilst reducing stress, anxiety and sleep related issues.
For some tips on exploring mindfulness for kids, take a look at the following advice from an independent college in Hampshire.
Practice Gratitude
Starting a gratitude journal will give your child an opportunity to take time out to mindfully consider the positive elements of their day. This could be as simple as starting the day off by writing three things they are thankful for and writing down another three things before they go to sleep, starting and ending their day from a place of gratitude.
This conditions them to actively seek out positives, even on the more difficult days. It will remind them to remember what they have in the here and now, and not simply focus energy on what they want or wish to achieve.
Mindful Walks
Our lives can sometimes feel busy and hectic, and we often forget to acknowledge and soak in our surroundings. Mindful walking is a way to quieten the busyness of the mind and anchor us in the present. Take a walk with your child and encourage them to focus on their senses:
- What can they hear?
- How does the ground feel beneath their feet?
- Can they feel the wind on their face?
This practice is a great stress reliever as it enables children to quieten any mental chatter and simply acknowledge the sensations they encounter. Its a really simple way to encourage mindfulness for kids.
Guided Meditation
Meditation can seem a little daunting for those who haven’t tried it before, but it really is a lot easier than it seems. It is simply the act of taking the time out to sit quietly and tune into the senses. If you and your child are new to meditation, try practicing in short bursts to begin with.
Find a comfortable sitting position and set a 5 – 10-minute timer, focus on breathing in for three seconds, then out for three seconds. As you do this, encourage your child to acknowledge the sensation of their belly rising and falling, and the feeling of the air filling their lungs. Taking time to meditate a few times a week can dramatically reduce levels of stress and anxiety.
We hope these few simple tips have helped you understand how you can explore mindfulness for kids. In this ultra busy and modern world, it can be difficult to find time to quite the mind and to be present in the moment. However try these few techniques with your children and watch the benefits of increased self-esteem plus reduced stress, anxiety and sleep related issues.
