Cyndy Erickson gave me a book and an invitation last Christmas. The book is My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menakem. The invitation was to connect remotely with her, and others to talk about the book, its impact on us, and America’s relationship with race. As we read and talked about the book over several months, I decided to create a … Read
Covid–What Can We Do?
The other day I went on a Downtown Adventure at what used to be Peace Park, but is now the south area of Cowles Commons. It’s a lovely space, featuring prairie plants and native trees. There are inscriptions on long, low, stone walls snaking through the park. Many of the quotes were familiar, but a few were new; as were … Read
Just Calm Down!
My name is Mary. I am nine years old. Yesterday, I went to yoga class to help show some of the activities. It was really fun! We had three 30-minute classes. The students were in pre-K through fifth grade. I noticed when the students came into the gym they were a little crazy and when they left, they were calm. … Read
Pandemic Journaling
Journaling works best with prompts and structure. Use the five activities in this post to reflect on how times are changing, feelings about those changes, and what you’re doing differently.
The Calming Power of Coloring
Mandalas keep restless hands busy while they calm the mind. Use them to inspire creativity, play with color combinations. Or wallpaper your house!
NEW Print-and-Go Resources!
These Mindfulness Resources are great for kids and parents alike. We need all the tools for managing stress we can get.
Breathe
Next Step’s resources to move past fight, flight, freeze, or freak out. When you need just a five-minute pause, our Mindfulness & Movement Activity Cards provide a guide to find Calm, Focus, Breath, and Movement.
Forest Bathing
No matter where you are today, walk outside. Breathe the fresh air. Touch the earth. Pick up a handful of soil. See how you feel.
Resources for a Mindful Classroom
Research is showing that even a few brief mindful moments a day can help relieve some of the pressure that kids AND ADULTS are feeling. Moving our bodies is also key to sharpening our minds.
Brain Breaks
Not only is movement good for physical health, but it’s good for mental health–focus and executive function. We’ve enjoyed working with the Iowa Department of Public Health as they rolled out Brain Breaks.
