Today I want to introduce you to a very simple technique to help your children listen to, accept and release any anxieties that they may be carrying. This method is often referred to as a body scan. It is a great way to both start and end the day, for kids and adults alike!
The aim of a body scan is bring our focus inside of ourselves and to listen to the feelings and sensations we are experiencing. As the saying goes, ‘you need to feel it to heal it’ and often by simply acknowledging the feeling and giving it a voice, we can go a long way in releasing it.
Sit quietly and think about each body part in turn, starting from head to toe. How does each part feel? Can we breathe deeply three times on a part that feels a little funny? Tense shoulders, headaches and sore tummies can all be signs of hidden anxiety and by acknowledging the sensation and breathing into in , we can help to lessen it.
It is also a great way to let you as the parent know that there are some anxieties present.
The important thing about carrying out these activities with your child is creating an open and honest environment to give them time and space to discuss their feelings with you. It is your chance to be there in complete awareness with your little person and to let them know that they are safe to be vulnerable with you.
You will find a lovely guided body scan here which you can use to get started from mindful.org
https://soundcloud.com/mindfulmagazine/body-scan-meditation-for-kids