Stress, anxiety, anger, sadness — these emotions are difficult to face, but they’re also a part of life. As parents, one of our most significant and difficult jobs is not only managing these emotions in our own lives, but helping our children to cope with them in a healthy way.

One mental health tool that’s gained notoriety in recent years for its impact on both child and adult mental health is meditation. The simple, ancient practice of setting aside time to be mindful has been linked by science to tangible reductions in stress and anxiety, an improved ability to cope, and even behavioral improvements and symptom reduction in kids with ADHD!

In celebration of World Meditation Day, which takes place this May 21, we’re taking a closer look at some of the remarkable studies correlating mindfulness and meditation with mental health benefits for kids.

  • A study assessing the results of a meditation education program which took place in Melbourne Catholic schools determined that children who participated demonstrated improved self esteem and sense of identity. [1]
  • One meta-analysis addressing the possible benefits of meditation education for kids noted the teaching of mindfulness as a helpful tool in reducing feelings of anxiety and stress in the classroom environment. [2]
  • An assessment of children participating in a six week, biweekly, family-based Sahaja Yoga Meditation class as a means of treating ADHD revealed that affected children reported both improved sleep patterns and interpersonal relationship quality as a result of their participation. [3]

 

Consider hosting your own family celebration of World Meditation Day, complete with calm, quiet spaces, soothing music, or child-appropriate guided meditations. To find out more about the event, click here.

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