May-June
2008
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally paying complete attention moment by moment, with heightened awareness, acceptance, and compassion.
How often does it seem like you're "running on autopilot"? Do you find yourself half-listening to someone while your mind is elsewhere?
Being mindful can help get you out of those ruts and get in touch with yourself.
"I suggest meditation pretty frequently. along with the importance of physical activity, structured sleep cycles, and healthy nutrition," says
Sand Carlyle, MA, LPA.
"They are all ways that can help insulate us against the inevitable disappointments, frustrations, and occasional traumas of everyday life, and enable us to be more resilient."
People report:
- Increased ability to relax and cope with stress.
- More energy and enthusiasm for life.
- Improved quality of life.
- Greater self-esteem.
- More compassion for self and others.
- Better ability to respond calmly and wisely to problems.
- Greater ability to manage pain or illness.
From a Kaiser newsletter
Did You Know?
According to a 2004 World Health Organization report, China had only 3% of the world's automobiles, but accounted for 21% of its traffic fatalities. In China, there are only 28 automobiles for every thousand people, which is about the same rate that the United States had in 1915.
Twelve honeybees work their entire lives to produce one teaspoon of honey.
Quotations
"You can pretend to be serious; you can't pretend to be witty."
- Sacha Guitry
"Whoever said sunshine brings you happiness has clearly never danced in the rain."
"If you don't think one individual can make a difference, then go to sleep with a mosquito in the room."
- African proverb
The Listening and Learning Connection
Hearing and listening are two completely different actions. Hearing is involuntary and passive, while listening is an active skill that requires the listener to process, interpret and apply meaning from what is being heard. And, just like any other skill taught in the classroom, possessing effective listening skills is crucial to educational success.
When students are able to be effective listeners, they are able to:
- Improve time management because they are paying attention and hearing information and directions correctly the first time they are spoken.
- Maximize use of prior knowledge, which allows them to make connections with new information they are hearing.
- Improve interpersonal relationships because students are paying close attention to what is being said and responding in an appropriate manner.
For more information regarding the connection between listening and learning, visit
www.learningthroughlistening.org
- From RFB&D newsletter.
Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic
RFB&D opens doors to educational opportunity for people with print disabilities of all ages. It is a nonprofit organization that relies on the philanthropic support of donors.
You may make a secure gift to RFB&D on their website:
www.rfbd.org
or by calling toll-free 866-732-3585.
