About the Book
Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment is a teacher-level perspective on mindfulness instruction that has systems-level implications. Mindfulness instruction is framed as an ally to social justice and antiracist practice; and as a path of empowerment, warriorship, self-healing, and collective transformation. In stand-alone essays that are rich with personal stories and student reflections, Meghan LeBorious lays the groundwork for a thriving mindfulness classroom that is highly engaging, rigorous, student-centered, and antiracist. She inspires readers to dig deep, imagine what is possible, and collaborate in making the world we want to live in, one in which every student is seen, supported, valued, and inspired; and is armed with the tools they need to step into their full power and potential.
Table of Contents:
Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Mindfulness Definitions and Brain Science
Chapter 2: Building Community and Restorative Justice
Chapter 3: Why Nuanced Representation Matters in Mindfulness Classrooms and Beyond
Chapter 4: Instruction
Chapter 5: Making it Engaging
Chapter 6: Elevating Student Voice and Leadership
Chapter 7: Working with Resistance
Chapter 8: Mindfulness Instruction
Chapter 9: Trauma Sensitive Practice and Why Embodiment Matters
Chapter 10: Dealing with Difficult Emotions and Discomfort
Chapter 11: Right Emphasis and the Importance of Emphasizing Authenticity over Positivity
Chapter 12: Culturally Responsive and Antiracist Practice
Chapter 13: Creating Meaning with Ritual
Chapter 14: Engaging Families as Partners
Appendices
A: Meditation Techniques
B: Mindful Minute Student Script
C: Sample Mindfulness Scope
D: Sample Mindfulness Standards
E: Steps if Triggered During Practice
Bibliography
About the Author :
Meghan LeBorious is an author, artist, mindfulness coach, restorative justice facilitator, and New York City high school teacher. She holds BA, BFA, and MFA degrees; and an MS in Education; and is also a certified teacher of the 5Rhythms dance and movement meditation practice, and a graduate of the Mindful Schools teacher training program.
Review :
Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment is a wonderful guide for teachers, parents, meditators, and community builders seeking to evolve and deepen their awareness and impact. Drawing on her experience of guiding mindfulness to high schoolers in Brooklyn, Meghan LeBorious blends traditional mindfulness exercises, restorative justice practices, and profound wisdom from high schoolers. Grounded in compassion and emphasizing accessibility and intention, this book is a powerful tool in fostering presence and genuine connection with our youth.
Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment makes an impassioned case for stand-alone SEL spaces where adolescents can work through whatever is holding them back and move into adulthood with purpose and power. In our time, adolescents are faced with tremendous challenges, and teachers are called on to show up with expert skills and willing hearts. By being present in interactions, teens can build stronger connections with their peers, their family, and their community. Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment provides inspiration, empathy, and active listening–crucial skills for healthy relationships.
Based on her own direct, valid experience as an urban educator, LeBorious provides anyone interested in supporting the learning and growth of our youth via the secular, non-sectarian study of mindfulness with her inspiring story along with a cornucopia of mindfulness practices that are easily accessible and can be applied in relationship to a variety of educational settings and content areas. These are practices that might empower youth from any walk of life, race, creed, religion and gender with the knowledge, understanding, and resilient means to emerge in accordance with their unique selves, skills, talents, inspirations, and ambitions. I am particularly moved by the student-written foreword introducing us to Ms. LeBorious and the tremendous work that she has accomplished as a public servant.
Meghan LeBorious’ experiences as a mindfulness practitioner and high school teacher are the foundation of this powerful and inspiring account of introducing mindfulness instruction in an urban high school. Through personal essays, she chronicles the development of a trauma-sensitive and anti-racist approach that made mindfulness instruction relevant to her students’ lives. She distills her journey into practical advice for creating mindfulness lessons, activities, and strategies for elevating student voice. Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment focus on creating meaning with ritual and engaging families as partners is a welcome addition. This is a hopeful book and comes highly recommended for educators, parents, and anyone who cares about the well-being of teenagers today.
I am thrilled to highly recommend Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment by Meghan LeBorious. This book is an excellent resource for any educator, concerned parent, or guardian who wishes to support teenagers in their journey towards mindfulness and empowerment.
What sets this book apart is its strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. It recognizes the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for all teenagers, regardless of their background or identity. By incorporating trauma informed approaches, the book ensures that mindfulness practices are accessible and beneficial to all.
One of the standout features of this book is its focus on mindfulness-based social-emotional learning. It not only teaches teenagers the skills to manage their emotions and navigate challenging situations but also empowers them to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Furthermore, Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment goes beyond traditional mindfulness practices. It guides educators and allies in the essential work of developing antiracist and culturally relevant skills and knowledge. By addressing these crucial topics, the book equips readers with some tools to foster a more inclusive and compassionate society.
In summary, this book is a must-read for anyone invested in the well-being and growth of teenagers. Its emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, combined with its trauma and poverty-informed approach, makes it an invaluable resource. I wholeheartedly recommend Teaching Mindfulness to Teens as a Path of Empowerment for its insightful guidance and transformative potential.
