Students are bombarded with stimuli. They move from their phones, to laptops, to classrooms, to the TV, and everything in between. It's no surprise therefore that when faced with stress or anxiety, their intuitive response is to reach for their phone, for a distraction - which only makes matters worse.
Below is a 3-step process to learn how to switch off, unplug and get some stillness. Numerous studies have demonstrated that mindfulness meditation can produce neuroplastic changes in the brain, resulting in reduction of stress, increased focus and memory retention.
The below introductory video and recordings show you a simple technique that is easy to try, but difficult to master. Your child may benefit from exposure to it. Who knows, maybe you will too!
Step 1: Watch the Intro
Step 2: Do the 5-Minute Meditation
Step 3: Watch the Debrief
Step 4: Keep Practising
There are many ways to keep learning these techniques. To keep practising solo, your child may want to download apps such as HeadSpace, 1GiantMind, Oak, or Calm.
For some students stress can be an issue that requires extra assistance. See below how a Year 12 student, Caitlyn was able to overcome stress with the help from her coach, Jade.