Now more than ever it is important to take time to “tune-in” to your emotions and practice mindfulness. Primary through Middle School students participate in weekly “Tune-In” programs, led by mindfulness educator Erin Galbraith. Tune In teaches awareness of the body, breath, thoughts and emotions. It also allows the space and time to practice flexibility and equanimity in the face of challenges and change. This program is in its sixth year at the school and the evidence of its positive impact on the students continues to grow. The sessions help them to assess their stress levels and learn practical breathing and movement exercises to maintain optimal mental and physical health.
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Lower Elementary students are “tuning in” during their weekly mindfulness practice.
Upper Elementary practices breathing and movement exercises.
The purpose of these classes is to help children to become aware of:
- their bodies- through mindful movement and actively practicing stillness
- how they listen and how they see
- their emotional state and how to self-regulate
- their breath and learn different ways to use breath to change the way they feel
- each other by cultivating kindness, generosity and gratitude
Studies find that learning mindfulness techniques, and making it a daily practice, benefits students in terms of improved:
- attention
- empathy and understanding of others
- emotion regulation
- social skills
- behavior in school
- response to anxiety and stress
