MICHELLE’S THOUGHTS:
Every time we sit down to meditate, we cultivate a relationship with our self. Whether it’s for 5, 15 or 60 minutes, meditation teaches us to ride the wave of life and to become nimble and facile when life’s surge becomes overpowering. In meditation we can build a strong base for ourselves. It doesn’t teach us to be perfect, it teaches us that when we make mistakes, we can integrate them, and that as we spend less time in overwhelm, distraction or sadness, we can have more empathy for our life and other’s. Meditation leads us into creative action.
Let’s remember our students know how to ride the wave of their sensations. They can create healthy boundaries when they’re in situations that feel unsafe. Let’s remind them they know how to communicate what they are feeling and can resource those who can help them get what they need. In the quiet moments, they can appreciate and celebrate who they are. It’s our job to hold space for this inner beauty.
THE SCIENCE:
Meditation has had proven success in helping both children and adults relax and feel quiet inside. Imagine giving yourself five minutes before you teach or parent in the morning to check in with yourself to see how you are feeling. What kind of day would you create from this moment?
Meditation reduces stress levels, helps us become more centered, allows us to get something troubling off our minds, and generally helps us feel and sleep better. What might change when a child takes a few moments before bed to breathe deeply and allow their day to melt away?
Meditation can decrease anxiety and enhance cognitive performance. It can lessen depressive symptoms and reduce the stress hormone cortisol. Consider the amygdala, our flight or fight center in the brain, being gently led by our presence of mind versus our reaction to the moment.
Meditation has been shown to increase brain matter density in regions linked to memory and learning. As it increases working memory, it also helps decrease the proclivity of the mind to wander. When we meditate, we integrate our experiences and call our attention to the present moment. This is the place from which true learning can happen.
THE STUDENT’S REFLECTIONS:
“I feel fresh!”
“I feel relaxed and calm.”
“I’m able to get away from things that were challenging.”
“I didn’t have to listen to anyone else but myself.”
“I didn’t have to worry about anything.”
“I’m able to take a break and not stress out. Sometimes I really stress out.”
“My body and soul felt free.”
“I let go of my worries.”
“I could focus on one thing at a time!”
“I saw myself floating an a peaceful cloud.”
“The emotions that filled my safe space were tennis balls and my dog caught the ones full of sadness.”
“I felt the wind on my face and the sun felt so warm and peaceful. It cooperated with me!”