First, You!
We all know that our moods, attitudes and behaviors influence our students. When we are feeling good, emotionally and physically, the day just goes better. When we are irritable, impatient and low-energy, the students are more likely to test boundaries and act out. By cultivating mindfulness within yourself, you will lead by example in your classroom. You will be happier, calmer and more resilient to stress. Your students will see how mindfulness is changing you for the better. Here are the key strategies that I am using to become more mindful and to take better care of myself, so I can be there for others. I am going into these topics in more detail in my blog, so let me know if you are interested in hearing more about any of these practices and I will write about them sooner, rather than later.
In the morning……
*Get up early and do the things that nourish your soul.
*Wake up in a positive way. Think of something to be grateful for. Set a positive intention for the day.
*Practice meditation.
*Do some gentle stretching or yoga.
*Write in a journal to explore problems or capture ah-ha moments.
*Exercise. When you exercise, you release "happy chemicals" and lower cortisol.
*Stay mindful while showering, doing your bathroom routine and dressing.
Throughout the day…...
*Eat and drink mindfully. Avoid multi-tasking while you eat or drink.
*Pause and breathe frequently, especially if you notice you are feeling tense or stressed.
*While driving, focus on just driving. Put your phone where you can't see it.
In the evening…..
*If you tend to process news emotionally, limit your exposure to media, especially news programs.
*Limit your screen time for 30-60 minutes before bedtime.
*Plan for an early bedtime, so you can rise early the next day.
In general, lean toward doing less and being more.
In the morning……
*Get up early and do the things that nourish your soul.
*Wake up in a positive way. Think of something to be grateful for. Set a positive intention for the day.
*Practice meditation.
*Do some gentle stretching or yoga.
*Write in a journal to explore problems or capture ah-ha moments.
*Exercise. When you exercise, you release "happy chemicals" and lower cortisol.
*Stay mindful while showering, doing your bathroom routine and dressing.
Throughout the day…...
*Eat and drink mindfully. Avoid multi-tasking while you eat or drink.
*Pause and breathe frequently, especially if you notice you are feeling tense or stressed.
*While driving, focus on just driving. Put your phone where you can't see it.
In the evening…..
*If you tend to process news emotionally, limit your exposure to media, especially news programs.
*Limit your screen time for 30-60 minutes before bedtime.
*Plan for an early bedtime, so you can rise early the next day.
In general, lean toward doing less and being more.
