This interactive workshop will help students increase mindfulness, specifically related to mindful eating, mindful thinking and mindful moving.  We create an awareness of “being present” in daily life in school, socializing, eating, moving, thinking and learning.  Most days we rush through life and gobble down food on automatic pilot.  Anxiety and stress builds, without dealing and without addressing the emotions, it can create unhealthy habits such as emotional eating, screen addiction and sedentary lifestyle.  

We don't just talk about mindfulness - instead we teach and involve students in mindful practices in this workshop.  Students will learn tools to slow down eating, and practice mindful eating.   Class participants will also discuss what does stress look and what may cause stress in kids.  Students will view a limited number of slides with discussion prompts to help foster discussion.  Students may also use the chat function if that is more comfortable.  Students then practice tools to manage stress, included participating in a guided meditation and progressive relaxation exercise that can be used anywhere. 

We believe in the power of mindful movement to promote healthy lifestyles and manage stress.  Halfway through the workshop, in between the mindful eating and mindful thinking sections, students participate in a 5-10 minute fun physical activity to encourage movement and prevent extended time sitting still.     We discuss why it is important to be mindful of movement and to take movement breaks through out the day for physical and emotional wellness.   The mindful movement section includes light stretching and fun aerobic activities, such as dancing.  

This workshop is lead by the KidShape team of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists and our health psychologist, Beth Braun, PhD.  Each of our team members are health education and wellness experts, with over 25 years of experience working with children and teens to manage stress and anxiety, eat healthier, improve health behaviors, and manage chronic health conditions. 

No experience is needed