Is your high schooler so stressed out that it’s hard for them to focus? Do they have anxious thoughts? Do they complain about poor sleep? Or say they wish they could score higher on tests? If you think they would answer yes to any or all of these questions, mindfulness may be a perfect addition to their academic toolkit.
We spoke with Jennifer Tilliss, founder of Superstar Life Coaching LLC and a mindfulness instructor, about how students can benefit from this unique practice.
What is Koru mindfulness?
Koru mindfulness is an evidence-based practice that was developed at Duke University and designed specifically for high-achieving, emerging adults to help reduce stress and anxiety.
What are some of the benefits?
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- Mindfulness is about putting your attention where it really matters: on the present moment. Staying present reduces stress and anxiety.
- Mindfulness encourages you to recognize your thoughts…but not get carried away by them.
- Mindfulness empowers you to react to stimuli thoughtfully, not instinctively or habitually.
- Mindfulness teaches you to focus on one task at a time and do it well.
- Mindfulness, through meditation and breath awareness, leads to better sleep.
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How can students develop a mindfulness practice of their own?
- Build up your mindfulness muscle. Start small: focus your attention on one, short activity (such as brushing your teeth) and when your mind begins to wander, gently bring it back to the activity.
- Meditate. This doesn’t require yoga, or religion, or silence—just breathing! Here, focus on your breath for a minute or two. This is another way of training your brain to be mindful.
- Practice gratitude. Research has shown over and over again that happy, positive people attract other happy, positive people. Practicing the act of being thankful, whether through journaling, sharing with a friend, or just being intentional with your thoughts can reduce stress and anxiety!
Ready to learn more? Watch our recording of Jennifer’s Thrive in 30 Webinar, “Mindfulness For Students,” in which she provides tips on how students can create a mindfulness routine of their own, thus enabling them to achieve greater focus, develop more resilience, and deepen their capacity for self-compassion.
