Parents Finding Mindfulness in Beijing

A little mindfulness can go a long way. Parenting brings out the best and the worst in people, and sometimes we need a little help. This week a mother told me that she uses a mindfulness app with her nine year old, and another mother told me how yoga and breathing helps her four year old.

We can all use a slice of happiness and mindfulness in Beijing, so I searched for ways to find those things in the city. Some of these activities can be done with kids while others are solely for parents to recharge and become more mindful.

Live Zen Center in Beijing is a Zen study and practice organization operated by the China Culture Center. A practicing Buddhist layman and a Zen Buddhist monk guide students on their journey of self-discovery. Students will also learn Zen not only in the theoretical form but also through music, stories, rituals, and martial arts.

Headspace is a mobile app that makes meditating simple for anybody anywhere and everywhere, and can be done with kids.

Yoga Yard is a center for yoga and wellness in Beijing and is “founded on a love for yoga and the joy the practice can bring.” The center utilizes high-quality teaching, with an emphasis on safety, and a deep respect for the practices that underlie [the]school’s philosophy.” Yoga Yard says that they are “committed to supporting students as they explore and grow their yoga practice, and welcome everyone regardless of age, gender, experience, level, and physical condition.”

Guided Meditations for children. I love meditations for children that include a soothing story that I don’t have to tell myself. The story also brings me some peace and calm as well.

Princess Kate Meditates a book for children. “Each child is unique, it is important we nurture our children so they express themselves with love, light, and joy. Meditation helps create a space where it is safe to feel and let go. It is a wonderful way to connect to the light of our being.”

Kids Relaxation is a website that aims to help parents and educators activate each child’s potential.

OMG I can meditate. The website for OMG I can meditate states that “there are thousands of studies showing the positive impacts of meditation and mindfulness on our health and well-being. And these great benefits aren’t just for adults! Here are some of the positive traits and skills meditation can help instill in children. These traits and skills will give them a strong and centered foundation that will serve them well as they develop and grow.”