Mindful Morning Rituals
Introduce mindfulness and affirmations
This lesson introduces students to a brief morning routine incorporating mindfulness and positive affirmations. It sets a calm and focused tone for the day, helping students improve focus and manage stress effectively. By engaging in these practices, students can develop better emotional regulation and a positive mindset, which are essential skills for their overall well-being and academic success.
All Students in Grades K-5
Introduce mindfulness and affirmations
Calm background music (optional), and Printable Affirmation Cards
Step 1
Introduction to Mindfulness
2 minutes
- Briefly explain what mindfulness is: being present and aware of the moment.
- Discuss how mindfulness can help us feel calm and focused.
Step 2
Breathing Exercise
3 minutes
- Guide students through a simple breathing exercise:
- Inhale deeply through the nose for a count of 4.
- Hold the breath for a count of 4.
- Exhale slowly through the mouth for a count of 4.
- Repeat this cycle 3 times.
- Encourage students to notice how their body feels during the exercise.
Step 3
Positive Affirmations
3 minutes
- Introduce the concept of positive affirmations: positive statements that can help us feel good about ourselves.
- Share a few examples, such as "I am strong," "I am kind," "I can do great things."
- Distribute Printable Affirmation Cards and have students choose one to say aloud.
- Encourage students to repeat their chosen affirmation quietly to themselves.
- Ask students how they feel after the exercises.
- Encourage them to use these techniques whenever they need to feel calm or focused during the day.
