I hope everyone was able to enjoy time with friends and family throughout Christmas Break. I know it's hard to come back to school after 2 whole weeks of vacation--because it's hard for me too!!-- but I hope that transitions back into school life will go quickly and smoothly.
We are starting our "Back-to-School Unit" here with the School Counseling Program, and just finished our Classroom Guidance lesson on Meditation and Relaxation. We got to listen to soothing music, draw pictures to articulate mood, and experience guided meditation as I helped students use their imagination to come to a peaceful, calm place mentally. Most students were able to participate and understand the importance of Meditation and Relaxation, and I was very pleased with that. I know it's hard for young ones to sit quietly and listen while they try to imagine peaceful scenarios as music is playing or I am speaking, but it is such a valuable experience that I wanted to share with these students. Benefits of meditation include less stress, stronger immune system, better relationship with friends and family, and better memory and concentration.
Next week we will learn about Personal Goal-Setting, and the week after that Motivation for School. I look forward to going through this unit with my students!