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Mindful Movement Break

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Lesson Plan

Mindful Movement Break

Reduce stress and increase focus

This lesson introduces students to a series of gentle, mindful movements and stretches that serve as a refresh break during the school day. These activities are designed to help reduce stress and increase focus, providing a physical outlet for emotions and energy. By incorporating mindful movement, students can enhance their ability to concentrate and manage stress effectively.

Audience

All Students

Time

15 minutes

Approach

Reduce stress and increase focus

Materials

Yoga mats or soft floor space, Calming music playlist, and Printable Cards: Mindful Movement Prompts

Step 1

Introduction

2 minutes

  • Gather students in a circle or seated on their yoga mats.
  • Briefly explain the purpose of the mindful movement break: to refresh and refocus.
  • Encourage students to be present and mindful during the session.

Step 2

Guided Breathing

3 minutes

  • Lead students in a simple breathing exercise: Inhale deeply through the nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through the mouth.
  • Repeat the breathing cycle 3-4 times, encouraging students to focus on their breath.

Step 3

Mindful Movements

7 minutes

  • Guide students through a series of gentle stretches and movements:
    • Neck rolls: Slowly roll the head in a circular motion.
    • Shoulder shrugs: Lift shoulders up to ears and release.
    • Arm circles: Extend arms and make small circles.
    • Forward fold: Bend at the waist and let arms hang towards the floor.
    • Cat-cow stretch: On hands and knees, alternate arching and rounding the back.
  • Encourage students to move slowly and mindfully, paying attention to how their body feels.

Step 4

Closure

3 minutes

  • Bring students back to a seated position.
  • Lead a short reflection: Ask students how they feel after the movements.
  • Encourage them to use these movements whenever they need a break or to refocus.
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Worksheet

Mindful Movement Prompts

These printable cards provide prompts for each mindful movement activity. They can be used to guide students through the exercises and ensure they understand each movement.




Neck Rolls: Slowly roll your head in a circle.







Shoulder Shrugs: Lift your shoulders to your ears and release.







Arm Circles: Extend your arms and make small circles.







Forward Fold: Bend at your waist and let your arms hang.







Cat-Cow Stretch: Arch and round your back on hands and knees.




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