We know how hectic life can be in a family with kids of all ages - and especially tweens and teens! Here are a few of our tips to practice some mindfulness, individually or as a family in your day to day activities.
- Put your phone down and on silent. Agree a time for digital detox in the household - this could be at meal times, for a period of time or even a whole day!
- Try to focus on one thing at a time.
- Tune in to your senses - what can you hear, smell, see, touch and taste?
- Try to escape to nature - even a short walk around the block before of after dinner. Take time to notice your neighbourhood - the sights, smells and sounds. If you don't have time for a walk, try just taking your shoes off and walking on the grass to feel grounded.
- Have conversations that are about more than logistics! We get so caught up in the day to day... how about asking each other about best / worst and most unusual things that have happened that day?
- Consider meditation - even if only for 5-10 minutes! We love a few different meditation apps that offer a variety of meditation options according to length of time, time of day etc. Check out Insight Timer and Smiling Mind in the app stores. Both are free to download and offer a variety of options!
- Create family rituals and routines that you all look forward to. It may be Sunday games night or a bush walk once a month.
- Try to practice gratitude - individually and as a family. Think of what you are grateful for each day. Write it down. Speak it aloud.
We'd love to hear your tips and tricks for mindfulness and connection at home. Email us at hello@zown.app!