#mindfulness

Generate a week of Stoic journaling prompts. Themes: 1. Memento Mori (Remembering death). 2. Dichotomy of Control (What is up to us). 3. Amor Fati (Loving one's fate). 4. Negative Visualization (Preparing for adversity). 5. The View from Above (Perspective). 6. Sympatheia (Interconnectedness). 7. Review of the Day. Include quote interpretation for each.

Manage stress with evidence-based techniques. Toolkit: 1. Box breathing (4-4-4-4 count). 2. Progressive muscle relaxation. 3. Journaling (brain dump). 4. Physical exercise (20-min walk). 5. Social connection (call a friend). 6. Nature exposure (green spaces). 7. Limit news/social media. Identify stress triggers. Distinguish controllable vs uncontrollable. Use 'stress inoculation' (small challenges). Apps: Headspace, Calm. Chronic stress impacts health - prioritize management. Build resilience through regular practice. Seek professional help if overwhelmed.

Integrate short mindfulness activities to improve focus and reduce anxiety. Activities (1-3 minutes): 1. Mindful Breathing: 'Belly Buddies'. Younger students lie down with a small stuffed animal on their belly and watch it rise and fall as they breathe. Older students can do 'box breathing' (inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4). 2. Mindful Listening: Students close their eyes and listen for sounds near and far, identifying as many as they can. 3. Mindful Seeing: Students closely observe a small object (e.g., a raisin, a leaf) as if they've never seen it before. 4. Body Scan: Students bring awareness to each part of their body, from toes to head. Use these activities after recess, before a test, or during transitions.