This time last year, none of us could’ve predicted the ways our lives have changed in the wake of COVID. There are numerous benefits to practicing mindfulness and gratitude, all of which alleviate the stress and anxiety of current life. Mindfulness can help stop the constant chatter in the mind, allowing people to take time to recognize and cope with their emotions. This may be especially helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic, say Yale experts.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment and accepting what you are sensing and feeling without interpretation or judgment. Mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided imagery, and other techniques to relax the body and mind and reduce stress.
Mindfulness has benefits for kids too. Mindfulness helps kids focus, reduce anxiety, and regulate their emotions. It has even been shown to reduce aggression, which improves social relationships.
Let’s get started! We’ve assembled a collection of resources so you can learn more about mindfulness and find the methods and techniques that work best for you.
Mindfulness Resources
Free Audio Resources for Mindfulness Meditation
Downloadable Mindfulness Meditation MP3 Files from MIT Medical
Body Scan: Lying Down (39:32)*
Mindfulness of Breathing (16:09)
Gentle Stretching/Yoga Meditation (38:20)*
Downloadable Relaxation MP3 Files from MIT Medical
Relax: Guided Meditation (6:26)
Music for Relaxation: Naive (2:06)
Music for Relaxation: Clouds (2:39)
Guided Visualization for Relaxation (9:01)
Videos
Morning MeditOcean A Guided Meditation with the Jellies from the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
3 Minute Body Scan Meditation – Mindfulness For Kids And Adults from Fablefy – The Whole Child.
Kids’ Meditation – Butterfly body scan from Stop, Breathe & Think
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEEJT9cYsm0&feature=emb_title&ab_channel=MyLife
Apps
This month’s edition of Power Parent Magazine features an article with gratitude and mindfulness apps for children, but it’s just as important for adults to have access to the apps that help guide us toward more mindful living. Check out the following apps and websites:
Headspace
Beginner-friendly. Has free 10-day trial and a discounted student plan.
Stop, Breathe, & Think
Calm.com
Simple Habit
Offering new meditation plans and collections designed specifically for stress and anxiety related to coronavirus.