Mindful Painting: Colors of Calm

Wendy Quirion

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Mindful Painting: Colors of Calm

Foster relaxation and emotional awareness

This lesson introduces students to the calming effects of art through a mindful painting session. Using soothing music and creative prompts, students will express their feelings through color, fostering relaxation and emotional awareness. This lesson is important as it helps students develop emotional intelligence and provides a creative outlet for stress relief.

Audience

Students in Grade 8-10

Time

35 minutes

Approach

Foster relaxation and emotional awareness

Materials

Canvas or paper, Paints and brushes, Soothing music playlist, and Discussion questions

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Begin with a brief discussion on how art can be a form of relaxation and emotional expression.
Explain the objective of the session: to use painting as a way to express feelings and find calmness.

Step 2

Mindful Painting Session

20 minutes

Distribute canvas or paper and paints to each student.
Play soothing music in the background.
Provide creative prompts such as 'Paint how you feel today' or 'Use colors that make you feel calm.'
Encourage students to focus on the process rather than the outcome.

Step 3

Reflection and Discussion

10 minutes

Ask students to share their paintings and discuss the emotions they expressed.
Use discussion questions to guide the conversation about how the activity made them feel and the importance of emotional awareness.

Step 4

Closure

5 minutes

Summarize the key points of the lesson.
Encourage students to use art as a tool for relaxation in their daily lives.

Discussion

Discussion Questions

These questions are designed to facilitate a reflective discussion after the painting session, helping students articulate their experiences and emotions.

How did painting make you feel today?

Encourage students to reflect on their emotional state before and after the activity.

What colors did you choose and why?

Discuss the emotional associations with different colors.

How can art help in managing stress or emotions?

Explore the therapeutic benefits of art and personal experiences.