🌟 Mindful Classrooms and Families: Insights from Educator Jamie Roberts 🌟

Hey there, Mindful Friends!

I’m thrilled to share some incredible insights from our latest episode of Conscious Corner Podcast with Annie + Courtney. In the episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Jamie Roberts, a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction instructor and elementary school teacher. Jamie’s journey into mindfulness is nothing short of inspiring, and I can’t wait for you to dive into the episode. Here are some key takeaways and intriguing highlights to spark your curiosity:

🧘♀️ Jamie’s Journey into Mindfulness

Early Introduction: Jamie was introduced to mindfulness at the age of six by her father. Imagine trying to meditate as a child—her first attempt lasted just 15 seconds!

Rediscovery: Years later, a book on her father’s shelf reignited her interest, leading her to explore loving-kindness meditation and eventually, the Insight Meditation Society.

🌟 Mindfulness in Education

Classroom Integration: Jamie brought mindfulness into her classroom in a high-crime neighborhood, starting with just a few students and growing to a lunchtime meditation club of 28 kids!

Impact on Students: After a traumatic incident, a student shared that mindfulness helped him sleep better, highlighting its profound impact on children’s well-being.

🧑🏫 Self-Care for Teachers

Daily Practices: Jamie emphasizes the importance of self-care for teachers, sharing how a simple five-minute pause can transform a stressful day.

Practical Tips: She even made a big sign that says "Pause" to remind herself to take mindful moments throughout the day.

👨👩👧👦 Mindfulness for Families

Bedtime Meditation: When Jamie’s children were younger, she would weave formal practice into their bedtime routine, creating a peaceful atmosphere that her kids appreciated.

Playful Practices: From "Butterfly Breathe" to mindfulness glitter jars, Jamie shares fun and engaging ways to introduce mindfulness to children.

💡 Practical Tips for Busy Parents

Small Moments: Even a few minutes of mindfulness while putting the kids to bed can be impactful. It’s about being present in those small moments.

Kindness Practices: Jamie suggests creating a “kindness buddy” system at home, where family members take turns wishing each other well.

🌍 Community and Resources

Family Retreats: Jamie shares her experience attending and leading family mindfulness retreats, emphasizing the importance of disconnecting from devices and connecting deeply with loved ones.

Mindfulness Programs: For those looking to deepen their practice, Jamie teaches the eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program at the Myrna Brind Center for Mindfulness at Jefferson in Philadelphia, where participants have the option to attend the program either in-person, or via Zoom. For more information, please click here.

In addition, you can join Jamie and others for weekly meditation sits offered through Delaware Valley Insight Meditation. To obtain information about a sit near you, or to learn about upcoming workshops and offerings, please click here.

I hope these highlights have piqued your interest! Jamie’s insights are truly transformative, and I encourage you to listen to the full episode, “Nurturing Mindful Families: Insights from the Classroom with Jamie Roberts” on Spotify to learn more about integrating mindfulness into your life and the lives of your children.

Until next time, take a moment to breathe and be present.

Warmly,

Courtney

P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review us on Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners who can benefit from these conversations. Connect with us on social media for updates and additional resources. We love hearing from you! 🌿