We have recently introduced mindfulness into our daily routine, and so far focused on the importance of breathing. Every day, for 5 minutes, we practice our controlled breathing, focusing on how it effects different areas of our body. We are encouraged to block out external distractions and focus on ourselves – it has proven to be quite tricky!
The children have shared their initial thoughts:
“It helps you to switch off from other emotions when you are focusing on your breathing.” SA
“It helps you to take your mind off anything that is bothering you.” MN
“It helps me to relax.” JS
“Sometimes I feel hyper after lunch break, so it helps you to calm and relax.” MC
“It’s satisfying to come in and focus after a busy lunch – and relax.” BM
“It helps you to concentrate in the afternoon if you have had a bad lunchtime.” SA
“The music helps you to relax. It makes it easier to breathe with the music on rather than silence.” FW
We have been very impressed with the way the children have tackled the mindfulness programme so far, and we look forward to continuing this work over the coming term.
Some of the children have even expressed that they are practicing these techniques at home – fantastic.