What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness has become increasingly popular in recent years, with lots of focus on 'mindful breathing.' Our program touches on this but emphasises teaching children how to be in the moment, understanding that thoughts and feelings happen within and always come and go. Mindfulness is about being in the present moment, right here and now. Unlike meditation, mindfulness is not about the absence of thought. It is simply about not judging or giving energy to those thoughts, acknowledging them and then redirecting your focus. Try having a mindful minute today, whether it’s a moment of stillness, a mindful stretch or even a simple activity like eating. Direct all of your focus on the activity, be aware of every breath and use all of your senses. What can you see, hear, smell, taste, and how does that moment feel inside? Notice how your body feels. If your mind wanders, return to the moment or focus on breathing. Mindfulness can be done by anyone, anywhere, at any time. It is simply about giving that moment 100% of your time, focus and energy.
The more you do it, the easier it gets and the endless benefits.
How does it help?
Mindfulness supports children in accepting every feeling just as they come, without judgment. It also helps build executive function skills, which support areas such as planning, focus, attention, and working memory. The brain needs this skill to filter distractions, control impulses, prioritise tasks, stay on track, and set and achieve goals. Mindfulness has enormous health and well-being benefits for everyone and can significantly benefit children who are Neurodivergent and may struggle in some of these areas.
One of the most significant benefits of being mindful is how it enriches every aspect of your life, mentally and physically, by helping you to make better and more conscious choices.
How does it work?
Our unique program introduces mindfulness, equipping children and families with the tools to be able to turn any routine, or even mundane activity, into a beautiful mindful moment - making it easier to incorporate mindfulness into your everyday lives. All the learning is done through play, building awareness, imagination, creativity, flexible thinking, gratitude, and the ability to pause and respond rather than react - giving our minds a much-needed brain break.
When you practice mindfulness regularly, you have the opportunity to step back from any stressors you may be experiencing, giving yourself the time and space to respond appropriately rather than automatically reacting.
