I came across this question a few months ago and it really struck a chord. I even gave a chuckle.
The image that comes with ‘mindful’ is a mind clear of everything. It is a mind that is still and concerned only with the here and now. A mind that is quiet and fully aware of the present moment.
A ‘full’ mind, on the other hand, conjures images of never-ending to-do lists, juggling multiple hats, thoughts of the past and future, and just a whole lot of unnecessary stuff.
So, while I greatly value mindfulness and continue to work hard at it, I can’t help but feel that my mind is more full than clear!
And I have no doubt that in such a demanding and high-pressure society, most of us are the same.
This also had me thinking about our children and what effect our fast-paced society is having on them and their wellbeing.
With jam-packed schedules – from sporting commitments to learning a musical instrument, to socialising with their peers, to homework – the busyness of life appears to be as never-ending for them as it is for us!
As a primary school teacher with more than 10 years of experience, I have seen firsthand the impact this busyness has on children’s emotional wellbeing, both inside and outside the classroom.
Of course, children need to play sport, learn a musical instrument, socialise, and do their
homework (I am a primary school teacher after all!), but has the opportunity for children to ‘just
be’ been lost?
Are we focusing too much on outcomes, on ticking things off the list, and not allowing children to just be in the present moment?
So perhaps, in the midst of ticking off our to-do list, let’s all try and find some time in the day to
be mindful and notice what we hear, feel, smell, touch, and taste, and our minds – even for just a brief moment – might be slightly less full.
Fiona is an experienced primary school teacher with a passion for student wellbeing.
She runs mindfulness programs for primary school-aged children, including school incursions, after-school sessions, and school holiday programs.
Each session is designed to equip children with a toolkit of mindfulness strategies to help them lead healthier and happier lives.
