In Between Classes

Hi, and welcome to this short grounding practice to help you feel centered and ready for the day ahead. Grounding ourselves in the present moment helps stabilize our busy minds and return to a familiar state of ease throughout the day. Being in a school environment all day can get hectic so it's important to take time to pause, take a breath and ground yourself before feeling too overwhelmed. So start by getting comfortable where you are right now. You can close your eyes or keep them open with your gaze softly resting on a spot in front of you. So let's just take this moment to acknowledge your efforts so far today. Taking a moment to appreciate that you've chosen to try this practice. And also appreciate the fact that you chose to be a teacher and are showing up for your students even if you feel tired or would rather be doing something else today. And just allow yourself to arrive in this moment of stillness. Feeling the points of contact between your feet and the floor. And feeling your body supported by the seat or the surface underneath you. Feeling your hands resting on your legs. And see if you can get 10% more comfortable in whatever position you're in right now. And we'll take a moment just to connect with the surroundings. Noticing sounds one at a time. Noticing any sense in the air as you breathe. And noticing any taste in the mouth and any sensations on your skin like your clothes or a breeze in the air. And now just rest your attention on the sensation of breath in your abdomen, feeling it lift and lower with each natural breath. If you prefer, you can always rest your attention on the sounds around you. Noticing as many sounds as you can, one at a time. And just allow thoughts to come and go, observing them instead of getting too involved. And then just return to your breathing or the sounds around you. Now, bring your mind to your school community, especially those teachers, administrators, parents, or staff that feel supportive to you and your students. And take this moment to acknowledge your collective efforts, showing up to inspire and teach even when it's tough. And just acknowledge the community of educators that you're a vital part of. Remember that you're not alone in the difficulties that you sometimes face and that others in your community face challenges as well. Now, take a slightly deeper breath in and out through your nose, slowing it down. And then gently ask yourself, "What's inspiring me to teach today?" Maybe it's connecting with students or sharing your enthusiasm about your subject or knowing that you'll have an impact on future generations. And it might be difficult to find a reason or purpose in teaching today and that's okay too. There will be days when we feel we're just trying to get through one hour at a time. So...