What is mindfulness and how can it help my family?
Mindfulness is the process of clearing your mind and focussing on one thing at a time (your breathing, emotions or the world around you).
Mindfulness allows you to focus on the present moment, and slow or eliminate worrying thoughts about the past or future.
Mindfulness can be practised anywhere, anytime to help your busy mind and body to slow down and feel calmer and happier.
Benefits of mindfulness include:
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Improved concentration
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Reduced anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed
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Balanced emotions
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Promotes feelings of happiness and a culture of kindness
As with learning any new skill, calming the mind through mindfulness takes time, practise and patience.
When practising with children, choose the right time for the whole family, relax and talk about how you are feeling before and afterwards.
Children can find sitting still and concentrating a tricky business. Don't feel disheartened if they lose interest, listen to your child's cues and try again another day.
MINDFULNESS
FOR
yourself
Mindfulness can be practised sitting, lying or standing.
Bring your attention to your mind, body and emotions, using:
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breathing techniques
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awareness of the senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste)
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awareness of emotions
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visualisations and affirmations
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Dance and movement
MINDFULNESS
FOR
your life
Mindfulness can also be practised during everyday activities to help you to see beauty and happiness in the simplest of things, places and people.
This can help you to be more 'present' and feel more positive about yourself, others and the world around you.