Lesson Plan

Why Mindfulness Works

Students will understand how mindful breathing’s effect on the brain’s stress response and autonomic nervous system, conduct a heart-rate experiment, and reflect on self-regulation strategies.

Teaching the science behind mindfulness empowers students with evidence-based tools for stress management, boosts self-awareness, and builds emotional regulation skills.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

15 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Hook

5 minutes

Step 2

Neuroscience Mini-Lecture

10 minutes

Step 3

Guided Mindful Breathing

5 minutes

Step 4

Heart-Rate Experiment

10 minutes

Step 5

Data Analysis & Discussion

7 minutes

Step 6

Reflection & Closure

8 minutes

lenny

Slide Deck

The Science of Mindfulness: A Neuroscience Overview

What Happens in Your Body When You're Stressed?

The Amygdala: Your Brain’s Alarm System

Prefrontal Cortex & Vagus Nerve: Calming Centers

How Mindful Breathing Calms the Brain

Key Takeaways

lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Journal

lenny
lenny
lenny

Why Mindfulness Works

dkhankan

Tier 1
For Schools
lenny-learning-logo

Lenny Learning

Create Lesson

CASEL

Health & Wellness

Behavioral Supports

Counseling & Therapy

Family Engagement

School Climate

Special Education

Academic Integration

Seasonal

Career & Life Skills

Arts & Creativity

My Lessons

My Lessons

Video Library

Video Library

Support

Support

Log In