Originally published in TEACH Magazine, January/February 2013 Issue
By Lisa Tran
Every morning when the school bell rings, kids across the country file into classrooms ready to learn, but are they really ready? Often, students can be distracted by their smartphones and tablets, concerned about family matters, stressed about bullying, easily excitable, or simply anxious about academic expectations. How can we help these students prepare to tackle and absorb the day’s lessons? We can ensure that they are healthy—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
Mindfulness and yoga are becoming popular approaches in our classrooms and not for their trendy appeal, but for their principles that encourage kids to engage their minds, connect with their bodies, and breathe. Using tangible and scientific examples, these new-to-the-classroom styles teach self-awareness and its ability to will positive outcomes.
Lisa is the Managing Editor at TEACH Mag. With over a decade of experience in educational content and media development, she’s passionate about social justice, education equity, and empowering learners of all ages. Outside of work, Lisa’s a globe-trotter at heart—she loves getting lost in new cities, sampling street food, chatting with locals, and collecting stories (and souvenirs) along the way.
