In a world that’s always buzzing, where you often juggle school, clubs, friends, and screens, it’s really important to have tools to help you feel calm and happy! That's where mindfulness comes in—it's a special practice perfect for you. But what is mindfulness, and why is it so important for you?

Mindfulness means paying close attention to what’s happening right now. It helps you stay focused and not get lost in worries or distractions. So, what can mindfulness do for you? Well, it teaches you how to manage your feelings better, making you feel stronger when facing life's ups and downs. It helps you concentrate, which is really handy when there's so much going on around you, and it can even melt away stress! Plus, it helps you understand how others feel, making you kinder friends, and encourages you to think carefully before making choices.

So, how can you bring mindfulness into your lives? You could start with some fun breathing games! Try finger breathing, dragon breathing, or balloon breaths. These exciting ways to practise help you focus on your breath while having a great time.  Another fun idea is sound awareness—close your eyes and listen closely to all the sounds around you. Mindful colouring is a brilliant way to unleash creativity and keep the mind calm. Nature walks are also fantastic, as they let you explore and notice the magic of the great outdoors. How about a yummy food meditation? Pick a small piece of fruit and savour each bite—it’s a delightful and tasty way to be mindful!

By weaving these enjoyable activities into your day, you’re not just helping yourself to manage life’s challenges better; you're also developing tools for a happy and healthy future!  Have a look at the links below for extra information, resources and support. 

• Cosmic Kids: Yoga and Mindfulness
• BBC: Mindfulness Hub
• BBC GoodFood: Mindfulness exercises for kids
• Kooth
• Weavesilk
• Partnership for Children: wellbeing activities