Now that you understand the importance of using trauma-sensitive mindfulness practices, here are 5 easy activities that you can start with. 5 Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness Exercises to Try With Your Students Trauma-sensitive mindfulness lessons can help make every student feel safe when practicing mindfulness, regardless of their trauma history. That’s why it’s important for any mindfulness practice you use in your classroom to be trauma-sensitive.

Facing trauma before they’re ready (and without the support of a trained therapist) could be harmful and increase anxiety for some kids. For example, mandating them to close their eyes may make students feel defenseless and vulnerable if they’re used to being constantly hypervigilant of their surroundings.Īsking them to sit with their emotions may feel overwhelming, as it’s asking them to come face-to-face with their traumatic experiences. Why Do Mindfulness Exercises Need to Be Trauma-Sensitive?įor kids who’ve been through trauma, certain mindfulness practices could be triggering for them. That’s why trauma-sensitive mindfulness is so critical to ensure that every student feels safe and can benefit from this practice. Reports show that almost 40% of all K-12 students will go through at least one traumatic event before they turn 16. The term “trauma-sensitive” (or “trauma-informed”) refers to the practice of being knowledgeable about the prevalence of trauma in our communities, and the commitment to create spaces that are emotionally and physically safe for those who’ve been through trauma.Īs an educator, more of your students may have experienced trauma than you realize.

Teachers are catching on to the importance of designing a trauma-informed space in their classrooms.

Trauma sensitive mindfulness book