Mindfulness in the Classroom: Fostering Mental Wellness in Education By Shailvi Sahdeva

Hi There!

Do you also sometimes wonder what education really is? What does it thoroughly include?

Is it only about what's taught to us?

Or it's more than that?

Well yes, it's way more than what you think it is.

Wholesome education is directly proportional to MINDFULNESS.

Along with learning what's written in the books, it's highly needed to merge oneself into the reality of one's existence. All the whats, whys, whens, wheres and hows are to be consciously known.

MINDFULNESS basically is the awareness that comes through complete focus and dedication to the present, without recalling the past and worrying about the future. This technique to calmness helps one live every moment with absolute presence of both heart and mind.

We all have come across and experienced school(s) but mindfulness was little rarely to be seen. Many a times we're told to focus on what was being taught, it was directed mindfulness only, but back in time the term was less known. It's a strategy used with high frequency to enhance both students' and teachers' wellbeing. yes, you read it correct, it's for both students as well as the teachers.

There's said to be two different traditions associated with mindfulness - one being the regular meditative practice from Buddhism and other religions, second being a more behavioral approach developed by a Harvard University professor of psychology, Ellen Langer (1989).

Globally, various school based mindfulness programs are being developed. Let's talk about a nation that's working on this topic, Bhutan. In this nation, education sector is implementing mindfulness programs as to improve Gross National Happiness (GNH). Education department here works with the Buddhist monks in order to cultivate deep, critical and creative thinking.

Being a teacher, mindfulness becomes an important aspect of the profession.

How teachers can inculcate mindfulness in themselves:

Start with yourself
Share the benefits
Use age-appropriate activities
Show regards for diversity and inclusion
Knit mindfulness into the curriculum

Why Teachers should take up mindfulness ?

Environment becomes more positive & productive.
Makes them emotionally strong
Helps manage difficult students
Strengthen Student-Teacher relationship
Builds community

While taking up a classroom, it's advised to scale the kids so that their level is enhanced and worked upon accordingly. Now, implying mindfulness in a learning environment helps the learners to open up with their original perspectives on any topic/matter of discussion.

On the side of learners, there are both - Psychological and Physical Benefits of Mindfulness.

Take a read!

Enhances coping skills
Improves learning ability and memory
Helps in effective management of problems
Strong self-esteem
Happiness grows
Provides better sleep
Better thoughts

How to practice mindfulness in classroom?

Guided meditation
Breathing Exercises
Journaling
Gratitude practice
Five senses: The 54321 check

Wellness is surely taking a preeminent role in today's education system. Featuring this mainstream movement, many holistic approaches done by health care sector are being adapted by education sector to foster well-being in schools.

To lead a decorum of mindfulness, it's vital to be a full-fledged human being, yet blank enough to welcome all thoughts of the classroom.

References

Article Authored By

Shailvi Sahdeva

Shailvi is an educator by profession and as well as an enthusiastic entrepreneur.

She is working in the field of education and mental well-being. And, also enjoyably sailing as a Human Resource professional.

Disclaimer: This article has been written by a guest author as part of a mental wellbeing awareness campaign. You are advised to properly verify any advice given with qualified practitioners before following it. Also, for that reason it may not meet our usual standards. PsychoTech Services or any of its members or employees cannot be held liable for any damage or loss caused due to following the advice and recommendations given herein.

5 Comments.
Join the discussion!

MJ Singh said…

This is a very important and interesting topic related to education. Well selected!

March 22, 2024 at 8:31 AM

Shweta said…

The article is very relevant for children and teachers. If we follow it then learning would be fun and interesting

March 22, 2024 at 10:53 PM

Suresh Bhardwaj said…

This article is very interesting and helpful in the field of education.

March 22, 2024 at 11:41 PM

Surojit said…

A crash-course for teachers in an article, Shailvi👏👏

March 22, 2024 at 11:42 PM

Shailvi Sahdeva said…

Thank you all for the appreciation, I would request the readers to imply mindfulness in general life as well,as to bring change for a better cause, it all starts from within ! :)

March 31, 2024 at 2:00 PM