As we enter the last few months of this school year, feeling both excited and anxious can be common for both children/youth and adults.
As exciting as looking forward to a break may be, for some of us, the last few months bring exhaustion and thoughts of “just push through it.” Some students may also be anticipating the upcoming transition with mixed emotions. So, now may be a perfect time to turn to MoveMindfully practices for support in helping us to stay present.
For some students, the school year feels predictable and creates a sense of stability. Whether looking forward to the summer ahead brings excitement or uncertainty, a lack of consistent structure and loss of time spent with friends can feel scary. During the next few months, many youth may feel anxious about the upcoming change in routine.
Here are some tips for staying present in this final “push.”
Breathe
Now more than ever, a daily practice of breathing together is important. Try the Big Sigh. Inhale through the nose and then exhale with a big sigh. Do this a few more times, acknowledging feelings of discomfort or excitement. Follow this with a few easy breaths in and out.
Move
Large gross motor movements work well to release big feelings and high energy. Consider using weight-bearing movement these last few weeks by creating a Strength Challenge for students.
Offer a variety of options during the challenge, so that everyone feels successful. Plank, Kneeling Plank, Wall Dog (Down Dog with hands pressing against the wall) or Chair Lifts (lifting yourself off the seat of the chair with your hands) are all great ways to release extra energy and big feelings while building strength and confidence!
Rest
Taking a few minutes to focus on gratitude can create an immediate shift in mood for a classroom. Take five slow breaths while thinking of five things you are grateful for with each breath. This activity is great for adults at staff meetings, too, and offers a simple way to wrap up the year on a positive note. Gratitude lists or journals are a great writing activity to add to this practice.
You can also find Rest audios in our Free Resources.
Self-Compassion
Finally and most importantly, remember self-compassion. Keep nourishing yourself with adequate sleep and healthy food and continue to take care of your body (and mind) by stretching and breathing throughout the day. Try Seated Eagle to hug into your strength, or a Seated Backbend to open your heart up to possibility for the day ahead.
Although it can feel personal when youth push us away or fall apart after making so much progress during the school year, remember it is not about you! In fact, it is because of you and all of the amazing work you have done to connect to your students this year that can create uncertainty/fear about this transition. Hence, the “PUSH.”
We at MoveMindfully want to thank you for all the work you have done to teach and love your students. Trust that you have done your best. Remember, stay present and lean into the PUSH.
What do you implement at the end of the year to end on a high note? What has worked well? Leave a comment!