Mindfulness Matters

Sarah Stout

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Mindfulness Matters Lesson Plan

Introduce 7th-grade students to mindfulness techniques to manage stress and improve focus through interactive activities and reflective discussion.

Learning mindfulness helps students build emotional resilience, reduces anxiety, and enhances attention which is essential for academic and personal growth.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Interactive exercises paired with guided discussion.

Materials

Mindfulness Matters Lesson Plan

Prep

Pre-Class Preparation

10 minutes

Review the Mindfulness Matters Lesson Plan to familiarize yourself with activities and discussion points.
Ensure the classroom environment is calm and free from distractions.
Prepare any necessary supplies (e.g., mats or comfortable seating) in advance.
Reflect on any potential classroom challenges and adjust the plan as necessary.

Step 1

Introduction & Explanation

5 minutes

Welcome students and introduce the concept of mindfulness.
Explain the importance of being present and managing stress.
Share simple examples of mindfulness in everyday situations.

Step 2

Guided Mindfulness Activity

15 minutes

Lead the class in a brief guided mindfulness exercise (e.g., mindful breathing or body scan).
Encourage students to focus on their breath and observe any thoughts without judgment.
Use calm, slow-paced instructions and ensure all students are comfortable.

Step 3

Group Discussion & Reflection

10 minutes

Facilitate a discussion on the activity: How did students feel? What did they observe?
Encourage sharing of personal reflections and experiences during the exercise.
Summarize key takeaways and relate mindfulness to everyday challenges.

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Slide Deck

Welcome to Mindfulness Matters

Today, we explore mindfulness – a simple way to manage stress and improve focus. Let's learn how to be present in the moment!

Introduce the lesson by welcoming students and explaining that today's focus is on mindfulness. Emphasize its role in improving focus and reducing stress.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is paying full attention to what's happening now, without distraction or judgment. It helps us manage stress and be more aware of our feelings and thoughts.

Explain the concept of mindfulness. Ask students if they have heard about it before and encourage them to share any ideas. Use this slide to set the stage for the activity.

Guided Mindfulness Activity

Let's try a simple mindful breathing exercise:

Sit comfortably with your eyes closed.
Take slow, deep breaths.
Focus on your breath coming in and out.
Notice any thoughts, then gently return your focus to your breath.

Give clear instructions for the guided mindfulness exercise. Remind students to follow along with the breathing exercise and to relax. Check the room to ensure everyone is comfortable and following.

Group Discussion & Reflection

Let's talk about our experience:

How did the exercise make you feel?
What did you notice about your thoughts and body?
How can you use this technique when you feel stressed?

Facilitate a discussion based on the mindfulness activity. Ask the students to share how they felt and what they noticed. Wrap up the discussion with key takeaways.

Activity

Mindful Breathing Exercise

This activity will guide you through a mindful breathing practice. Follow the instructions carefully, and try to stay relaxed and present as you focus on your breath. Remember, the goal is not to clear your mind completely, but rather to observe your thoughts without getting caught up in them.

Instructions:

Get Comfortable: Find a comfortable seated position. You can sit on a chair with your feet flat on the ground, or on the floor with your legs crossed. Ensure that your back is straight.
Close Your Eyes: Gently close your eyes to minimize distractions and help you focus inward.
Focus on Your Breath: Begin by taking a slow, deep breath in through your nose. Feel your belly expand with air.
Exhale Slowly: Slowly exhale through your mouth, noticing the sensation of your breath leaving your body. Try to keep your attention on the flow of air.
Repeat: Continue this cycle for a couple of minutes. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breathing.
Observe Your Thoughts: As you breathe, simply observe any thoughts or sensations that arise. Acknowledge them and let them pass without judgment.

Reflection Questions:

How did you feel during the exercise?
Were there any distractions or thoughts that felt particularly strong? How did you manage them?
Can you think of moments during your day when this breathing technique might help you feel calmer?

Take your time to answer these questions and reflect on your mindfulness experience. When you are ready, slowly open your eyes and bring your attention back to the room.

Happy breathing!