Summer is a time of joy for many. Frequent sunny and warm days give us more chances to soak up vitamin D and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer days can also be packed with plans for keeping the kids busy, in camp, in sports, at the swimming pool. These are an important part of a child’s summer and a parent’s sanity. Let’s take a look at other opportunities to engage our children’s senses and to build the skill of being present.
Mindfulness is a “buzz” word now. With its roots in early Buddhist teachings, it commonly refers to:
- awareness,
- attention,
- remembering to stay present,
- and observing experience clearly and nonreactively
In the late 1970’s, researcher and meditation teacher, Jon Kabet-Zinn created Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. He describes mindfulness as ““Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” – https://jonkabat-zinn.com/
Summer creates lots of opportunities to practice Mindfulness. Start with the exploration of nature and just notice and describe it. Slow down and create a quiet morning for a walk in a park or nature reserve. Teach the kids to “pay attention on purpose”. Help them to notice the vibrancy of color with green grass and blooming flowers. Listen and watch for baby birds leaving their nests. Look for shapes in the clouds. Visit somewhere new, or rediscover your favorite spot. Look for bugs. Notice your feet in the cool dewy of the grass. Touch dirt. Compare rocks. Stay present and breathe in the warm summer air. Be mindful of the beauty surrounding you. And remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen!