Showcase Document

Introducing meditation and mindfulness to youths during my practicum was both a rewarding and an educational experience.

Meditation

I used several different guided meditations through the practicum. Most of the students report feeling centered and less angry after a session. Most also stated that they slept much better after guided meditation. I generally started each session with attention on the breath or heartbeat, whichever resonated for the student. I would then start the relaxation process starting with the head and working down. One meditation in particular was effective for those students struggling with their forgiveness work: this meditation starts with creating a safe inner place and then imagining themselves as they are now greeting their younger selves and as an infant. The meditation concludes with the student telling all the younger selves they love and forgive them. The students are then directed to take the selves into their hearts where they are safe and loved. This exercise is both freeing and comforting. Most students report that it was powerful and moving.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness exercises are particularly helpful to people who struggle with ADHD and other attention span difficulties. I adapted several techniques for the youth I worked with. One technique that was not only effective but fun was introducing mindful eating. I gave each student a wrapped chocolate and walked them through unwrapping and savoring the chocolate. I encouraged them to think, feel, and focus only on the action of eating chocolate. I was able to use this activity to talk to the students about being in the moment: something most people struggle to do. I also taught some mindful listening and the students were surprised by how well they could focus on only one sound at a time. This tool is particularly helpful during school, lectures, and therapy sessions.