With cardstock paper, pencils, markers, and crayons in hand, students embarked on a journey of self-awareness. The activity commenced with a grounding exercise, guiding students to place their hands on the paper’s surface and attune themselves to its texture. By tracing their hands with a pencil, students further connected with their physical presence, observing the sensations along their fingers and reflecting on the present moment.

Once attuned to their emotions, students unleashed their creativity within the traced hand outlines. Prompted to recall a significant event and the corresponding emotions, they expressed their feelings through colors and words. In one hand, hopeful and exciting sentiments found their voice, as students inscribed words in each finger. On the other hand, nervous emotions related to the same event were acknowledged. The resulting artworks varied, with some students creating symmetrical mandala-style designs and others opting for unique artistic expressions.

Sharing and Reflection

To foster a sense of community and mutual understanding, students shared their artwork with their peers. In a collaborative class discussion, we delved into the significance of acknowledging and embracing our emotions. The exercise served as a reminder of the importance of practicing mindfulness daily and cultivating gratitude for the opportunities it provides in nurturing emotional well-being.

The “I am Here” mindfulness art activity has illuminated the transformative power of self-expression and emotional connection. By engaging in this creative journey, students have deepened their understanding of their emotions, fostered a sense of mindfulness, and celebrated the present moment. As we reflect on the shared experiences and expressions of gratitude, we are reminded of the profound impact mindfulness can have on our well-being. Let us continue to explore these practices, empowering ourselves and others to embrace our emotions and nurture a mindful existence.