- Tuesday 19 February 2019
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When we think, our mind often wanders to thoughts of the past or future. It starts to worry about, plan for and engage with daily tasks, feeling and expectations. This can become overwhelming at times and may lead to negative thoughts, feelings and actions causing unnecessary stress in our lives.
The most important step to being mindful is to 'be present'. This means to focus your attention on the experiences you are having right now. It helps you to stay grounded when your thoughts are wandering to the past or future. For this series, we have used the theme 'Be like a tree' to help you develop mindfulness in your personal lives and those of your students. Practise 'being present' using the following activity:
Picture yourself as a tree. Your feet are your roots, your body is your trunk, and your arms and fingers are branches of the tree.
- Stand up tall with your feet comfortably positioned to support your body. (trunk)
- Stretch your arms and fingers out to each side of your body. (branches)
- Close your eyes if you feel comfortable to do so. If not, focus your attention on a blank background, free from visual stimulation.
Stand like a tree for as long as you can without talking/thinking. If thoughts come into your mind, simply refocus your attention on 'being a tree'. Remember: trees don't think/worry like we do.
See how long you can 'be present' for while standing like a tree. Practise doing this in your personal life and with students in your class for increasing periods of time.
Stay tuned for the next blog: Mindful breathing.