Attention & Awareness

Attention is the ability to focus, whether on internal aspects of yourself, (such as emotions and physical sensations) or on external stimuli (anything that can trigger a physical behaviour change – smell, touch etc). The capacity to be aware of a stimulus while it is happening is referred to as attention.

Mindfulness is an activity that children and young people can do to help their wellbeing. It helps them to learn how to focus on the present moment and be aware of their thoughts and feelings. This can help children learn how to deal with stress and anxiety and make it easier to pay attention. There are many different mindfulness activities that teachers use in school, such as breathing exercises, mindful movement or mindful colouring.

There are many simple ways to practice mindfulness. Some examples include:

  • Pay attention. Try to take the time to experience your environment with all of your senses — touch, sound, sight, smell and taste. For example, when you eat a favourite food, take the time to smell, taste and truly enjoy it.
  • Live in the moment. Try to find joy in the things you do.
  • Accept yourself. Treat yourself the way you would treat a good friend.
  • Focus on your breathing. When you have negative thoughts, try to sit down, take a deep breath and close your eyes. Focus on your breath as it moves in and out of your body. Sitting and breathing for even just a minute can help.
Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels.com

Leave a comment