How Mindfulness Techniques Can Influence Education

Mindfulnesspic

Mindfulness
Image: bustle.com

Recently overseeing the Tukwila School District as superintendent, Dr. Nancy Coogan exceeded expectations at her post, including developing and implementing a race and equity policy in the State of Washington, which is now used as a national model. Always researching new practices and theories relating to education, Dr. Nancy Coogan is a supporter of mindfulness in the classroom, gaining traction with districts around the country.

Current research is starting to explain the importance of teaching emotional self-awareness, as well as mindfulness to improve student and teacher relationships. The modern education system has caused many young people to fall into a pit of toxic stress, which can be mitigated by mindfulness practices, such as meditation.

Mindfulness teaches students to be aware of thoughts, emotions, and the environment, by nurturing positive outlooks and relaxation. By erasing many of the mental loops caused by stress, such as dissociation, narcissism, and a sense of being overwhelmed, students can develop self-control, emotional strength, and better memory, by taking the time to meditate for as short as ten minutes during class.

Today, mindfulness practices have shown to help children handle many mental problems, such as ADHD, anxiety, or excessive aggression.