*If you are interested in this program, please email us at mindfulness@health.ucsd.edu to be added to the interest list. We will contact you once this program is scheduled.

How Can Mindfulness Help Teens Reach Their Potential?

Neuroscience research reveals that the parts of the brain responsible for learning, concentration, self-regulation, and compassion can improve by learning to pay attention on purpose to our inner and outer experience each day. By exercising our awareness muscle, we can literally change areas of the brain responsible for stress, worry, and anxiety. A crucial skill in managing our stress effectively is to be able to deal with change whenever it occurs. What we know is that Mindfulness training can reliably and profoundly alter the structure and function of the brain to improve the quality of both thought and feeling.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness teaches moment-to-moment nonjudgemental awareness. It is simply learning to pay attention to our experience just as it is in each moment. Much of our stress occurs when we let our minds run on autopilot, which can lead to rumination and worry. Through simple practices, Mindfulness can improve emotional resilience and strengthen our capacity to respond skillfully to life's challenges. Essentially, Mindfulness empowers teens to live happier and healthier lives!

“Mindfulness creates space, changing impulsive reactions to thoughtful responses.”

In this retreat, students will explore ways to . . .

• Focus attention and improve concentration
• Relieve stress and promote relaxation through mindful movement and meditation practices
• Increase self-awareness to improve self-regulation
• Cultivate compassion and a sense of well-being