Schools Tree Day - The Nature of Mindfulness - 15 minutes

The aim of these activities is to help students make sense of mindfulness by applying it to life. In the first activity students make a ‘States of Mind’ bottle, which when shaken symbolises the mind in both its messiness and when left to settle symbolises a mind at peace. In the second activity students take a Nature Awareness Walk, and in the third activity students find a Natural Mindful Talisman or Totem to aid them in their mindful practice.

Learning Goals:

• To create enhanced focus, emotional regulation, empathy and happiness through connection with nature.
• To cultivate present moment awareness so that calm, considered and conscious choices can begin to replace impulsive, unconscious reactions.
• To provide hands-on contact with the natural world.