Embracing Discomfort: Tips for Practicing Mindfulness and Cultivating Resilience as a Family
Personal development is an important focus at Camp Kupugani. Embracing discomfort as a means of growth and learning is a unique and valuable approach. At Camp Kupugani, two of our (six) core values—excellence and empowerment—speak to the importance of embracing discomfort both at camp and in our lives at home. Navigating discomfort on the way to personal growth and learning means being able to develop resilience. Below are some tips and resources on how practicing mindfulness and cultivating resilience can help families develop health tools for coping with discomfort.
Family Mindfulness Activities
Engage in mindfulness exercises together. These can include guided family meditations, mindful walks, or ten seconds of silence before meals (like we do at camp) to express gratitude.
Open Communication
Encourage open and non-judgmental conversations within the family. Create a safe space where each family member feels heard and supported, allowing for honest discussions about feelings and challenges.
Practice Gratitude
Start a family gratitude journal or routine where everyone shares one thing they are grateful for each day. This helps shift focus to positive aspects even during challenging times.
Mindful Breathing Exercises
Practice simple breathing techniques to manage stress and anxiety. For instance, the “4-7-8” breathing technique—breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds.
Encourage Self-Care
Promote self-care practices. This could be scheduling regular family self-care days, where each member chooses an activity that brings them joy and relaxation.
Model Resilience
Parents and guardians can model resilience by openly talking about their own challenges, how they cope with them, and emphasizing the importance of adaptability and perseverance. Daily sharing of “high-low-highs” as we do at camp helps kids understand that everyone goes through challenges.
Create Routine and Predictability
Routines provide a sense of stability, especially during uncertain times. Consistent schedules help reduce anxiety and create a sense of security for children.
Resources
Apps for Mindfulness
Consider family-friendly mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm. Some apps offer specific sections or activities designed for kids.
Books on Mindfulness for Kids
“Sitting Still Like a Frog” by Eline Snel and “The Mindful Child” by Susan Kaiser Greenland are great resources that introduce mindfulness concepts to children.
Family Workshops or Courses
Look for local or online workshops tailored for families. These might cover topics like family mindfulness practices, communication, and coping strategies during challenging times.
Mindful Games and Activities
Explore board games or card sets designed to promote mindfulness and emotional awareness in children. Examples include “Mindful Kids: 50 Mindfulness Activities” or “The MindUP Curriculum.”
Therapeutic Resources
Consider family therapy sessions or counseling. Sometimes, having a professional guide can be immensely beneficial in fostering mindfulness and resilience within a family.
Conclusión
A Campamento Kupugani, we realize that practicing mindfulness and cultivating resilience is an ongoing journey. Consistency, patience, and a collective effort within a family (at camp or at home) can create a nurturing environment that helps each member navigate discomfort and challenges in a healthier, more resilient manner.