Mindfulness with Ms. Larson
Curious about mindfulness? Want to learn about how being in nature impacts your mind? We asked Ms. Larson, WHS’s ceramics guru and avid practicer of mindfulness for some information.
What is mindfulness and why is it important?
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention- on purpose- in a non-judgemental way. Teenagers especially tend to judge each other and themselves through an extremely critical lens. Mindfulness can help students and all individuals that interact in a school setting to appreciate each moment and refrain from judgement.
What is your relationship to mindfulness practices?
I meditate each morning. I find that those 10 minutes I carve out for just me really help me to focus my energies for the day. I have taken a number of positive psychology and mindfulness courses at Boston University and began to brainstorm with one of my professors about ways to bring mindfulness to the education community at large. Last year I was talking with Adam Diliberto (WHS Bridge teacher and fellow mindfulness advocate) and we decided to write a grant asking if we could bring a mindful moment to the beginning of each faculty meeting. Dr. Chisum was on board and we have been practicing mindfulness with the faculty at each faculty meeting ever since. One moment at a time.
Why is spending time in nature beneficial? How does it impact you?
Meditation can happen in many ways. One way I choose to mediate is through mindful walking. I make use of the trails in Wellesley and take the time to walk and gain perspective almost daily. This helps me to clear my mind, plan new lessons and remember what is important in life.
Why is important to practice mindfulness?
We all lost perspective from time to time and if we can actively be present in each moment (or at least a few of them each day) we will enjoy life more fully, keep our emotions in check and find true joy in everyday activities.
What are ways teenagers can integrate mindfulness into their lives? Especially as it relates to the outdoors?
(these questions are very open-ended, write whatever you want)
If we could challenge teens to take 3 deep breaths three times each day to smell the air, listen to the bird or just focus on their breathing, we would be setting up our future workforce for success and joy. Taking these breaths while outside can really build gratitude and appreciation within all of us.