Mindfulness
In Year 1 the children have been learning about mindfulness.
Research shows that classrooms that use mindfulness techniques and practices experience more calmness and focus. In Year 1 we have focused on using mindful calming techniques to prepare us for listening and learning; especially after playtimes and noisier activities!
Here are some of our favourite activities so far, you may wish to try them yourself:
Starfish Breathing
Hold your hand in front of you in a starfish shape. Use your finger on the opposite hand to run up and down your fingers. As you do this focus on your breathing, try to breathe in as your finger goes up and out as your finger goes down.
Bubble Breathing
Imagine you have a bubble wand. Close your eyes and take a deep breath in and breathe out as if you are trying to blow bubbles, gently so they don’t pop, but firm enough to make lots of happy bubbles. Imagine your happy bubbles are blowing to all your friends.
Rainbow Breathing
Standing with your feet shoulder width apart, in sensible space with your eyes closed. Raise your arms straight up in front of you as you breathe in and down to your sides as you breathe so you are making a rainbow shape. Imagine the colours of your rainbow as you do this.
Here are some quotes from the children:
It makes me feel relaxed – Matthew
I feel happy after mindfulness – Theo
I like bubble breathing- Ishaan
Mindful breathing makes me feel calm- Ranbir
The special breathing makes me feel relaxed- Poppy
I like rainbow breathing- Olivia
Mindfulness makes me feel relaxed when I have been angry – Michael