#bookreview :- Planting Seeds: Practicing Mindfulness with Children

(recommended book)📗..........................................................................

“We all have the seeds of happiness… A good teacher touches the seed, allowing it to wake up, to sprout, and to grow.” In fact, one of the activities in this book is to literally plant seeds as a way of tangibly showing the effects of nurturing the “happy seeds” and “unhappy seeds” in our hearts “to decide which seeds will grow and which will not grow inside us.” Planting Seeds is one of the best books I have read so far. Based on author, Thich Nhat Hanh's thirty years of teaching mindfulness and compassion to parents, teachers, and children, the book and enclosed CD covers a wide range of contemplative and fun activities parents and educators can do with their children or students. They are designed to help relieve stress, increase concentration, nourish gratitude and confidence, deal with difficult emotions, touch our interconnection with nature, and improve communication.

The key practices presented include mindful breathing and walking, inviting the bell, pebble meditation, the Two Promises or ethical guidelines for children, children's versions of Touching the Earth and Deep Relaxation, eating meditation and dealing with conflict and strong emotions. As Thich Nhat Hanh notes, “Children seem to have a natural love of ceremonies, rituals, songs, and games… and a great capacity for spiritual learning and growth. When spiritual practice is communicated simply and directly to them, the children experience it as fun and helpful.” By nurturing the positive "seeds" in ourselves, we provide powerful role models for our children as they learn and grow.

Practical applications aside, this is an easy read and even easier to incorporate into daily life. Highly recommended for anyone who is struggling to gain an understanding of mindfulness and anyone who works with children and teens! #bookreview