Moderator Pick
June 9th, 2023

The Intersection of SEL, Mental Health, and Mindfulness

I began incorporating Mindfulness practices into my high school classroom nearly 10 years ago. In that time the practice has become a daily occurrence for all classes, and how we begin class each day. In the past two years, the focus has broadened to embrace SEL and Mental Health concepts, particularly incorporating Zones of Regulation into our discussions. This intersection is important, as all three concepts (SEL/MH/Mindfulness) work hand in hand. As a certified Mindfulness Instructor, I have also been working with district faculty in incorporating these concepts into classrooms/buildings, as well as developing faculty-focused PD.

The measurable gains (via the EPOCH tool) are noticeable...and could effectively be applied on a larger scale. This intersection is but one piece of a complex issue...but it is a practical start, and as these seeds of Mindfulness are sown, they so sprout and blossom. Culture gradually changes, improves, and becomes centered. And that bodes well for the mental health of all participants.

Time. Patience. Nurturing. Consistency.

Tags: Climate and culture, Integrating SEL into academics, Mental health, restorative practices, SEL Resources, students

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Comments (2)

Comments (2)

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Zones of Regulation and daily breathing/mindfulness activities has been very helpful for my students as well.

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Hi Peter:

Thanks for joining our conversation and sharing your classroom practices.

Please come back and tell us more -- what supports could the school, district or state provide to make your job easier? What ideas do you have for scaling up this practice to be school-, district- and state-wide?

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