Mindful practice

 

Breathe like tress

Mindfulness has become a real buzzword in recent years. What does it mean? Where does it come from? And why should you care? Well, mindfulness can apply to all sorts of people in all sorts of situations. It may be able to transform the way you live your life. 

This is particularly true if you’re currently in education; as the year rolls on, and anxieties about upcoming assignments, deadlines, and exams get worse, you might benefit from a more mindful approach to life. It’s easy to become stressed out and overwhelmed by the pressures and expectations of school, college, or university. However, mindfulness practices can help you manage stress, reduce anxiety, increase productivity and stay on top of your workload. 

The practice of mindfulness is gaining popularity among students due to its ability to improve academic performance, increase focus and concentration, decrease stress levels and promote overall well-being by bringing us closer to our true nature. Incorporating mindfulness practices into your class routine is not as challenging as you think. Here are some examples:

Pay attention. It's hard to slow down and notice things in a busy school life. Try to take the time to experience your environment with all of your senses — touch, sound, sight, smell and taste. For example, when you eat a favourite food at the school cafeteria, take the time to smell, taste and truly enjoy it.

Live in the moment. Try to intentionally bring open, accepting and discerning attention to everything you do. Find joy in simple pleasures. This can be done by asking your students to think of three things to be thankful for and share them in class. 

Focus on your breathing. When you have negative thoughts or anxiety before an exam or presentation, try to sit down, take a deep breath and close your eyes. Focus on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. Sitting and breathing for even just a minute can help.

Sitting meditation. Meditations also help students to manage stress or anxiety. First, sit comfortably with your back straight, feet flat on the floor and hands in your lap. Breathing through your nose, focus on your breath moving in and out of your body. If physical sensations or thoughts interrupt their meditation, note the experience and then return your focus to your breath.

Walking meditation. Find a quiet place 3 to 5 meters in length anywhere in the classroom. Then, begin to walk slowly. Focus on the experience of walking, being aware of the sensations of standing and the subtle movements that keep your balance. When you reach the end of your path, turn and continue walking, maintaining awareness of your sensations. A few minutes of this meditation can change your mood significantly.