New to MVHS this year is a 9th Grade-Freshman Seminar focusing on Social & Emotional Learning. One item of focus for this class has been the concept of mindfulness. Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn defines mindfulness as "Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, nonjudgmentally."
Extensive research has been done on the benefits of mindfulness, especially with adolescents. These benefits include greater emotional intelligence, better stress management, and the ability to understand and process emotions and awareness of ourselves. Mrs. Davie's students are currently working through some lessons from Patricia C. Broderick's "Learning to Breathe." A section of that curriculum focuses on mindfulness of body. Rachelle Pfouts, of Abundant Moon Yoga, made a guest appearance in the class to talk about mindfulness. She gave students some background, taught a mindful breathing technique, and even gave students a lesson on introductory yoga practices which incorporate mindfulness. The mindfulness and yoga presentation was an interesting and intriguing experience for all!
