The Teacher, Prepare Self

The Mindful Montessori blog has come to fruition as a goal for my Montessori classroom in 2011-2012 school year. Every year, the Head of School will give all staff members a Professional Development and Goal Setting form that will has several questions. The final question is "What are your two goals for next year?" In the years past, I remember having....finish my Montessori training.....a clean and organized closet...consistent daily record keeping....and now nurturing the spirit. Over time, this has been an area of my montessori environment I have not given as much attention to as I  would like. As time has gone by I began to observe playing the "Silence Game" and Grace and Courtesy lessons are not a Montessorian's only option to establish mindfulness. So where do I begin?...with myself.

This is my summer plan to begin my practice.

• Reading...Nurturing the Spirit, In Non-Sectarian Classrooms ...and any books that I come across I will share.

• Workbook...Shining Through, A Teacher's Handbook on Transformation
• Yoga classes,  2-3 times a week
• Daily Meditation
• Journal writing 

Mindful Montessori will include topics of The Teacher's Preparation, The Environment and Mindfulness Practices. I am looking forward to a Mindfulness year.

A Montessori Teacher's Thoughts

What is Mindfulness to me?

Mindfulness is having focused attention to internal and external experiences in the present moment of time, without judgment.

Mindfulness has its origins in the Buddhist tradition. However, Mindfulness practices have been used in treatments for stress, chronic pain, anxiety and others. Researchers suggest this type of training can benefit in everyday life.

Why am I practicing Yoga and Meditating?

Mind and Body of course!

I honestly love Yoga! I am not a fan of “exercise”.  I cannot see myself running miles every day even though I am quit envious of those that can.  It is something that I feel is a way for me to be completely present at what I am doing. Meditation is something that my sister has recommended to me. This is something that is getting better and better with time.  I was so excited when I meditated for 12 minutes today, allowing thoughts and body pain come and go …and then centering myself.

What have I noticed in this short period of time?  

v  Peaceful mind

v  Listening attentively to others.

v  Enjoying my time, not always thinking what’s next?

v  My mind is not on the go.