Mindfulness

Continuing research is showing that mindful practices can have a tremendous impact on physical and mental wellbeing - both for adults and children. Mindfulness is a key support for optimal learning and protects a student’s’ developing brain from the harmful effects of stress and trauma. It also cultivates greater self-awareness and an expanded awareness of others and the world.

The following mindfulness practices and activities are used in our Core Program. Descriptions for each can be found in the 2015 Open Circle Curriculum under "Mindfulness Practices and Activities":

• Calm Breathing Techniques
• Pause Button (with or without chime)
• Partner Reflections
• Chair Yoga
• 3-Minute Breathing Space
• Walking Meditation
• What Color Are Your Feelings? Activity

Mindfulness Literature for Children

View a list of children's books connected to mindfulness.

Mindfulness Literature for Adults

• 101 Mindful Ways to Build Resilience: Cultivate Calm, Clarity, Optimism & Happiness Each Day, Donald Altman, M.A., LPC
• The Here and Now Habit, Hugh G. Byrne, Ph.D.
• The Mindfulness Edge: How to Rewire Your brain for Leadership and Personal Excellence Without Adding to Your Schedule, Matt Tenney

Additional resources

Mindful Schools: The Mindful Schools website describes some research outcomes suggesting that in addition to improved attention, emotional regulation, and reduction of stress, benefits of mindfulness include greater compassion. “People randomly assigned to mindfulness training are more likely to help someone in need and have greater self-compassion.”

Breathe2Relax mobile App: for children and adults
Platform: Android, Apple iPhone and iPad (free)
Mental health experts maintain that diaphragmatic breathing is a cornerstone of stress relief. Breathe2Relax guides you through the process with clear videos that help you practice and master the technique.

For additional information about Open Circle's integration of mindfulness themes and practices into training programs and curricula, please contact us at info@open-circle.org.

Integrating Mindfulness into SEL

- View our presentation slides