“Take a breath. Take time. Take notice, me aro tonu. We live in a world of increased pace and complexity. The practice of mindfulness helps you reflect on your experiences and appreciate what really matters.”

Mindfulness means paying attention to what is presently occurring, with kindness and curiosity. What you pay attention to may be a thought, a feeling, a physical sensation, another person or things that are happening around you. Mindfulness is scientifically proven to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as lower blood pressure and improve sleep.

Mindfulness Month is all about connecting you with a new challenge each week of July to help you cultivate a practice of mindfulness. The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand is hosting Mindfulness Month for another year. All of the information in this newsletter is directly from: Mindfulness Month

The weekly challenges: 

Journalling: The daily task of writing, drawing or noting your thoughts, emotions or things you're grateful for is proven to improve mental wellbeing, help you process difficult life events and increase self-awareness and understanding.

Digital/Social Media detox: Studies show taking a break from our screens or social media can help improve sleep and social connections, and decrease depression, stress and procrastination.

Meditation: When you learn to meditate you are training your mind to be more present. You sit, breathe, allow your attention to settle. It takes practice to learn how to calm a busy mind.

Mindful Eating: Eating mindfully means slowing down and engaging all of your senses to experience what you are eating. You'll have more gratitude for the people and nature involved in growing and preparing your food, and added bonus - your digestion will thank you for it!

You can choose to simply take on the weekly challenges yourself and be guided by the website or you can sign up and be supported with guided meditations, resources, advice and inspiration to help you experience the full benefits of the weekly activities. I hope that you are able to take a breath, take time and take notice this July. 

Image sourced from: Mindfulness Month

Jenelle Hooson

Jenelle is a fully registered member with NZAC (New Zealand Association of Counsellors).

If you wish to discuss the services the School Counsellor can provide, please talk to your child’s homeroom teacher or make contact with Jenelle directly: jenelle.hooson@medbury.school.nz