Use these eight words when practicing mindfulness in the classroom and remembering the importance of presence for teachers:
Patience
In order to be truly present, we can learn to not rush the moment or seek to hurry to the next event. Choosing patience allows us to fully experience the here and now. This is especially important for teachers, who can learn to be patient with both themselves and their students. Teaching, like learning, is a process—not merely a product or destination. A growth mindset encourages teachers and students alike to be gentle with themselves, understanding that the road to success can be long and filled with setbacks.
Relaxation
Just remembering to breathe can help a teacher get through a particularly stressful event or trying day. The key is to remain as relaxed and easygoing as possible, especially given that students can pick up on a teacher’s tension and apprehension. A teacher’s mood sets the tone for the classroom, ideally cultivating a culture of calm and alert readiness. Teachers can take frequent breaks to refresh and refocus, getting out of the classroom during breaks and lunch to connect with positive colleagues, agreeing not to discuss anything school-related.
Empathy
Empathy and the sharing of similar feelings connect us to others, and this sensitivity and awareness are what mindfulness is about. In the classroom, students yearn for a sense of belonging and community—amongst their classmates and with their teacher. Showing that you care and understand builds trust and relationships crucial for maximum learning. Be attuned to your students’ social and personal lives; this mindfulness will pay off in their academic achievement and your satisfaction as an educator.
Serenity
Like relaxation, an overarching sense of peace makes for a classroom environment conducive to learning. While learning can be enthusiastic and alive, feelings of fear and dread can be minimized. Teachers can approach each day with serenity and assurance, knowing it will be filled with willingness, wisdom, wonder, warmth, and worth for both students and themselves. Never forget: it’s a privilege to interact with children. The best teachers learn just as much from their students as their students learn from them.
Engagement
Engagement is as crucial for teachers as it is for students. It involves interaction and involvement—not just interest or passion. Face-to-face connections and discussions allow students and teachers to be fully present and mindful. A present and engaged teacher listens as much as they speak. By knowing your students personally and academically, you can tailor your instruction and feedback to their varying needs, ensuring they feel heard and understood. This connection fosters a sense of purpose and accomplishment that enhances job satisfaction.
Non-Judgment
To be truly empathetic, one must learn to suspend judgment, which only separates us from others. Judgment presumes we always know better or that we understand every step on someone else’s journey. Instead, teachers can focus on becoming closer to their students socially, emotionally, and intellectually. These professional relationships prioritize moving kids forward rather than dwelling on blame or misdeeds.
Centeredness
Being centered means focusing on the present rather than the past or future. Students enter the classroom with various baggage, but to help them concentrate on the learning task at hand, you must be free from external distractions. Teaching allows you to set aside personal worries and complaints, focusing fully on your students. This presence is liberating and illustrates how worry is a distraction from the joy found in the present moment.
Even Temperament
Living in the moment doesn’t mean events and people won’t upset us. Cultivating an even temperament helps us handle frustrations and challenges calmly. One way teachers can develop this temperament is by shedding the baggage they bring into the classroom. Each day is a new opportunity for students to shine. If something goes awry (and it will), you can face it gracefully, recognizing it as just one small blip in an otherwise lovely day with your students.
