When we send our kids outside, it’s usually for exercise and active play to run around and get some energy out. But, have you thought about heading outdoors when your kids need some peace and calm, too? I’m sure you have an indoor space designated for calming or peace or whatever you prefer to call it, but what about creating a peaceful space outdoors, too?
THE BENEFITS OF SPENDING TIME IN NATURE
Nature is a “wonder drug”. It’s highly effective at promoting peace and calm, doesn’t have side effects, and it’s free! Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on physical, mental, and emotional health. Getting outdoors can:
- Improve mental health by reducing depression and anxiety
- Increase positive emotions and happiness
- Improve academic performance
- Reduce stress
- Improve physical health like lowering blood pressure
- Increase resilience
- Promote a sense of purpose
I created a step-by-step outdoor meditation space planner for you to use with your kids. I added it to the Mindfulness Library, so be sure to click the button below to get your free password for instant access to ALL of the resources there. If you already have a password, just head straight over to the Mindfulness Library when your done here.
WHat is an outdoor meditation space
An outdoor meditation space will give your kids (and you, too) the time and space to get quiet, calm, reflect, and find answers. It's a space to be still and find peace. A place to connect with nature and ground.
It can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Just create a space that is peaceful and inspirational for you. Get the kids involved and brainstorm ideas. Design and create the space together.
HOW TO CREATE AN OUDOOR MEDITATION SPACE
1. Choose your space
You’ll probably want to choose a quiet space away from busy activity and noise. A shady spot under a tree is a nice place. Keep in mind if the space will be used by one person at a time, a small group, or the whole class because the size of the space will matter. Just choose the best spot you have, it will be perfect no matter what.
2. Create a space for sitting
Seating can be as simple a sitting in the grass. If you plan to have a lot of kids using the space at once, this may be the best option. Other ideas are to include blankets, yoga mats, pillows or cushions, or even a bench or hammock.
3. Add your “sensational” accessories
You honestly don’t need to add anything at all and let nature do her thing. Or, you can add some accessories that appeal to the senses to help with the overall calming experience.
- Sight- bird bath, flowers, plants, bird feeders, decorative stones
- Sound- wind chimes, fountain, music
- Touch- blanket, pillow, small stones to hold, sand
- Smell- fragrant flowers, herbs
- Taste- herb plants, berry plants
If eating from the garden would be dangerous for your kids, then don’t. Either skip it or bring out some fruits and veggies or a cup of water or tea.
4. Create a peace basket with mind-body tools
Add some mind-body tools to a basket for your kids to use in the outdoor meditation space. We all know that sitting still can be difficult so the items in the basket will help with that. Switch up the items from time to time to keep it engaging for the kids.
I like to provide items that appeal to the five senses in the peace basket, too. Here are some ideas, you can pick a couple from each category to add to yours.
VISUAL ITEMS:
- Books about mindfulness, peace, or kindness
- Calming bottle, mind jar
- Pictures of nature
- Mandala coloring page
AROMATIC ITEMS:
- Scented candles (they smell even if they aren’t lit)
- Aromatherapy bracelet
- Cotton balls with essential oils in a jar
- Scratch and sniff stickers
PHYSICAL/MOVEMENT ITEMS:
- Pinwheels for deep breathing
- Bean bag animals for deep breathing
- Hoberman sphere for deep breathing
- Yoga cards
AUDITORY ITEMS:
- Bells
- Chimes
- Rain stick
- Music
TACTILE ITEMS:
- Stress balls
- Smooth stones
- Sand/rice tray
- Finger labyrinth
- String of beads
- Mandala with loose pieces
I created a Step-by-Step Design Planner for you to design and create your own outdoor meditation space. I added it to the Mindfulness Library for you. Just click the button for free and instant access to the design planner.
Send me a picture of YOUR outdoor meditation space. I can't wait to see it!
~ Dawn
