Mindfulness
According to Jon Kabat-Zinn, mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.
For teachers, mindfulness can be a challenge. We spend a significant amount of time reflecting on our practice and ensuring that we are properly prepared for what happens next. We are trained to assess, critically analyze, plan and solve problems. Our lives are often so busy that we are left with little time to renew, recharge, and be present.
Beginning a mindfulness practice can help us build the capacity to stay focused on the present and reduce some of our incessant overanalyzing. As you practice, you develop an ability to see how negativity bias can generate thoughts that trigger negative states of mind. We see how our thoughts can drag us around. Eventually, we can observe the thoughts arise without attaching to them. Rather than pushing negative thoughts away, we just observe them and allow them to pass. This creates some space for greater peace and joy.
Mindfulness may start as a daily practice for a set amount of time. As you train your mind to be able to stay focused on the present moment, that training carries over to your "regular" life. Being mindful while eating, driving, talking with others, brushing your teeth, etc. can bring a greater sense of awareness into everything you do.
Below are some resources for you to explore mindfulness practices.
For teachers, mindfulness can be a challenge. We spend a significant amount of time reflecting on our practice and ensuring that we are properly prepared for what happens next. We are trained to assess, critically analyze, plan and solve problems. Our lives are often so busy that we are left with little time to renew, recharge, and be present.
Beginning a mindfulness practice can help us build the capacity to stay focused on the present and reduce some of our incessant overanalyzing. As you practice, you develop an ability to see how negativity bias can generate thoughts that trigger negative states of mind. We see how our thoughts can drag us around. Eventually, we can observe the thoughts arise without attaching to them. Rather than pushing negative thoughts away, we just observe them and allow them to pass. This creates some space for greater peace and joy.
Mindfulness may start as a daily practice for a set amount of time. As you train your mind to be able to stay focused on the present moment, that training carries over to your "regular" life. Being mindful while eating, driving, talking with others, brushing your teeth, etc. can bring a greater sense of awareness into everything you do.
Below are some resources for you to explore mindfulness practices.
PD
If you are interested in hosting professional development at your school or in your district, go to our PD page for a list of presenters and the sessions they offer. If you are a presenter and would like to be included on this page, please e-mail Todd Scholl.
Where to Start
At Teachers Aligned, we believe that it is critical for educators to establish their own mindfulness practice before attempting to introduce this to colleagues or students. There are many ways to cultivate mindfulness, but a simple breathing practice is a wonderful place to start. Please note that anyone dealing with mental health issues should consult with a mental health professional before establishing a practice. Listen to yourself and go easy. If practice brings up difficult emotions, use caution. Just as you would start a new running practice by going short distances and building up, you should start with shorter practices of just a few minutes and gradually increase your practice time.
Apps
Apps are a great way to begin a mindfulness practice. Each of the apps below provide a variety of practices, teachings, and other resources to get you started.
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