Lesson Plan
Mindful Movements Lesson Plan
Introduce 7th graders to mindful movements to enhance focus, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being through a series of simple exercises.
This lesson encourages students to incorporate mindfulness with physical movement, promoting mental clarity and stress relief that supports their academic and personal growth.
Audience
7th Grade
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Use guided activities and discussions for an interactive session.
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
5 minutes
- Review the Mindful Movements Lesson Plan to familiarize yourself with the objectives and flow of the session.
- Ensure the classroom space is safe and open for movement.
- Prepare any music or audio cues if available for guiding the movements.
- Confirm you have a timer to manage the session pace.
Step 1
Warm-Up
5 minutes
- Begin with light stretching and deep breathing exercises to prepare the body.
- Explain the purpose of the warm-up to center the students' focus and get them engaged.
Step 2
Main Activity
20 minutes
- Guide the students through a series of mindful movements such as slow, deliberate stretches and balancing poses.
- Encourage students to focus on their breathing and bodily sensations during each movement.
- Intermittently pause and ask reflective questions about how they feel, fostering mindfulness and engagement.
Step 3
Cool-Down
5 minutes
- Lead a gentle cool-down with seated stretches and a brief meditation or gratitude reflection.
- Summarize the benefits of mindful movements and encourage students to try these exercises at home.
Slide Deck
Welcome to Mindful Movements
Today, we will explore how combining movement with mindfulness can improve our well-being. Let's get started!
Introduce the lesson topic and explain that mindfulness combined with movement can help reduce stress and increase focus.
Warm-Up
• Begin with light stretching.
• Practice deep breathing exercises.
Focus on your body and mind to prepare for movement.
Explain the importance of warming up before any physical activity. Encourage deep breathing and stretching.
Main Activity
• Perform slow, deliberate stretches.
• Try simple balancing poses.
• Focus on your breathing and how your body feels.
Guide the students through mindful movements such as slow stretches and balancing poses, asking reflective questions during transitions.
Cool-Down
• Gentle seated stretches.
• Brief meditation or express gratitude.
Remember: Regular mindful movements can help reduce stress and enhance focus.
Lead the students through a cool-down with seated stretches and a brief meditation or gratitude reflection. Summarize the session's benefits.
Activity
Mindful Movement Practice Activity
In this activity, you'll have the chance to put the mindful movement techniques into practice. Follow the guided instructions, engage with the exercises, and take a moment to reflect on your experience. This activity is designed to help you become more aware of your body and mind while reducing stress and improving focus.
Activity Guidelines
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Find Your Space:
- Ensure you have enough room to move safely. Stand or sit comfortably, where you can stretch and move freely.
- Ensure you have enough room to move safely. Stand or sit comfortably, where you can stretch and move freely.
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Guided Movements:
- Warm-Up (5 minutes): Begin with gentle stretches and deep breathing exercises. Focus on releasing tension and preparing your body for movement. Follow the teacher's directions or use the prompts below:
- Stand tall, gently tilt your head to one side, and slowly rotate your neck in circles.
- Inhale deeply and raise your arms slowly, then exhale as you lower them. Repeat a few times.
- Stand tall, gently tilt your head to one side, and slowly rotate your neck in circles.
- Main Activity (20 minutes): Engage in a series of mindful movement exercises:
- Perform slow, deliberate stretches such as reaching towards the sky or bending forward to touch your toes.
- Try simple balancing poses by standing on one foot for a few seconds before switching sides.
- As you perform each movement, concentrate on your breathing and note any physical sensations or emotions that arise.
- Cool-Down (5 minutes): Conclude the activity with calming, seated stretches and a brief meditation:
- Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths.
- Reflect on how your body feels after the movements and think of one thing you are grateful for today.
- Warm-Up (5 minutes): Begin with gentle stretches and deep breathing exercises. Focus on releasing tension and preparing your body for movement. Follow the teacher's directions or use the prompts below:
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Reflection:
- After completing the exercises, take a few minutes to write or share your thoughts about the activity. Use the questions below to guide your reflection:
- How did the movements make you feel physically?
- Did you notice any changes in your breathing or heart rate?
- Were there any emotions or thoughts that surfaced during the practice?
- How might you incorporate these exercises into your daily routine to help manage stress?
- After completing the exercises, take a few minutes to write or share your thoughts about the activity. Use the questions below to guide your reflection:
Follow-Up Points
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Discussion: After the activity, the teacher will lead a group discussion. Share your personal reflections and listen to others' experiences. This discussion helps build a supportive environment and enhances understanding of mindfulness.
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Journaling: Consider keeping a mindfulness movement journal to track how these exercises affect your daily mood and focus over time.
Remember, the goal of this practice is not to perfect each movement but to become more aware of your body and mind. Enjoy the process and feel free to adjust the exercises to fit your individual needs!
Happy mindful moving!