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"Be"ing Whole; exploring mindfulness-based movement and meditation to maintain balance Winter 2024

Want to focus this winter study on being in the moment; explore mindfulness-based movement practices such as yoga, and practices in nature? In this years’ rendition of the class on “be”ing and learning how to maintain or achieve homeostasis in the autonomic nervous system (balancing “fight or flight” and the “rest and digest” parts of our nervous system) we will explore the neuroscience behind why mindfulness practices can be helpful in restoring the homeostasis of a stressed nervous system while practicing different types of mindful movement (yoga, hiking/snowshoeing, walking, etc.), mindfulness activities (mandala making, tactile and sensory activities, games, etc.), and meditative exercises (body scans, gratitude, loving kindness, etc.) Each class will start with an invigorating yoga flow (modifications are always welcome) and will then continue to highlight a specific activity followed by a 5-10 minute journal prompt. The final project will be for students to take what they’ve learned about mindfulness exercises and practices as well as their own physical and psychological reactions to these practices and to customize a toolkit that includes soothing reminders, activities, prompts, and supplies. What to Expect: – Playful yoga practices! – Calming/soothing meditative practices – loving-kindness, gratitude, body scans, visualization exercises – Creative mindfulness through art (observing art, creating mandalas, other tactile or sensory activities) – Mindful outdoor exploration that we will adapt to based on the weather (be prepared to wear rainboots and coats if we have to – within reason, of course) – hopefully this will be snowshoeing and sledding! – Learning about yourself through reflection and mindfulness practices and creating a customized kit for self-soothing during overwhelming moments/periods in life to maintain balance. The course will include weekly visits to a local elementary school(s) to teach and integrate well-being practices into elementary education. This will be an opportunity that students can choose to participate in at least once during winter study. We will be “testing” our inner childhood “skills” throughout the course by exploring children’s yoga techniques, games, and activities and getting to practice them, of course, as well!