Life can be hard. During the tween years, hormones are wreaking havoc on young bodies and emotions. School increases in intensity, social cliques form, kids get more involved in sports and afterschool activities. Tweens may also start using social media to connect with friends and the outside world. While these rites of passage and increased independence can be exciting, there is also a lot of new terrain that can cause stress.
Benefits of Meditation
A great coping skill to get through these rough spots (and beyond!) is meditation. According to Healthline, meditation helps regulate sleep, attention, stress management, creativity, moods, focus, retention of information and overall well-being. Caitlyn Adams, Reiki Teacher/Practitioner and Yoga Instructor says, “Mindfulness and meditation promote focus and clarity of the mind and also help with stress management. By learning these tools young, tweens
How Can I Help My Child Get Started?
There are many apps and websites that provide tools to help with meditation. Some people find it easiest to start with either a guided meditation or with simply focusing on the breath. To get your child started, you may want to practice together. Follow these simple steps:
- Find a quiet place free of distractions.
- Find a comfortable position. Many people meditate on a cushion on the floor, sitting upright in a cross- legged position.
- Have your child close their eyes or soften their gaze so the world around them is not in clear focus.
- Take a few long, slow breaths, pausing at the end of the inhale and exhale. Pay close attention to the breath and try to block out any potential distractions. If thoughts enter the mind, return focus to the breath.
- Relax the body and also the mind. Let go of all stress and anxiety that is stored within. Remain in this state for 5-10 minutes.
With practice, meditation becomes easier and time may be extended.
Beginning a meditation practice at a young age will help your tween prepare for life by giving them healthy coping strategies. When life gets tough, taking a few minutes to pause and get centered can help reset the mind and body to a relaxed state.
RESOURCES TO GET STARTED
Websites:
Guided meditations designed specifically for youth
Meditation cushions, books and accessories
Apps:
Insight Timer Headspace Calm