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Mindful Moments for Teens

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Lesson Plan

Mindful Moments for Teens

Enhance mindfulness and stress management

This lesson introduces 8th grade students to mindfulness practices to help them manage stress and improve focus. Through guided activities, students will learn to be present and aware of their thoughts and emotions, which is crucial for their emotional and cognitive development. By practicing mindfulness, students can enhance their ability to concentrate, reduce anxiety, and develop a greater sense of calm and well-being.

Audience

8th Grade Students

Time

30 mins

Approach

Enhance mindfulness and stress management

Materials

Mindfulness Exercise Handout, Calm Music (optional), Video: Ladybug Body Scan: 7 Minute Mindful Meditation for Kids, and Reflection Prompt

Step 1

Introduction to Mindfulness

5 mins

  • Begin by asking students if they have heard of mindfulness and what it means to them.
  • Explain that mindfulness is about being present and fully engaged with the current moment without judgment.
  • Discuss the benefits of mindfulness, such as improved focus and reduced stress.

Step 2

Guided Breathing Exercise

10 mins

  • Hand out the 'Mindfulness Exercise Handout' to each student.
  • Guide students through a more advanced breathing exercise:
    • Sit comfortably with your back straight and close your eyes if you feel comfortable.
    • Focus on your breath, noticing the rise and fall of your chest.
    • If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath.
  • Play calm music in the background if available.

Step 3

Video and Discussion

10 mins

  • Watch the Ladybug Body Scan: 7 Minute Mindful Meditation for Kids video.
  • After the video, discuss how visualization and imagination can aid in relaxation and stress management.
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts on how mindfulness can help them in daily situations.

Step 4

Reflection and Sharing

5 mins

  • Ask students to reflect on how they feel after the exercises and video.
  • Encourage them to share their experiences and any new insights they gained.
  • Discuss how they can incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines.
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Reading

Mindfulness Exercise Handout

This handout provides instructions for a more advanced breathing exercise that students can practice to enhance mindfulness and concentration.

Advanced Mindfulness Breathing Exercise

  1. Find a Comfortable Position: Sit up straight in your chair with your feet flat on the floor.

  2. Close Your Eyes: If you feel comfortable, gently close your eyes.

  3. Focus on Your Breath: Notice the natural rhythm of your breath without trying to change it.

  4. Acknowledge Thoughts: If your mind wanders, acknowledge the thought and gently bring your focus back to your breath.

  5. Continue: Maintain this focus for several minutes, observing any sensations or emotions that arise.

  6. Reflect: After the exercise, take a moment to reflect on how you feel and any thoughts that came up.

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Worksheet

Mindfulness Reflection Prompt

This reflection prompt encourages students to think about their mindfulness experience during the lesson and how they can apply mindfulness techniques in their daily lives.

How did you feel before and after the mindfulness exercises?

Consider any changes in your mood, focus, or stress levels.







What was the most challenging part of practicing mindfulness today?

Think about any distractions or thoughts that made it difficult to focus.







How can you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine?

Identify specific times or activities where mindfulness could be beneficial.







What benefits do you think mindfulness could bring to your life?

Reflect on how mindfulness might help with stress, focus, or emotional well-being.







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