“Mindfulness is a way of paying attention moment-to-moment to what's happening within and around us without judgment.” - Tara Brach

Mindfulness is well known for reducing stress, improving focus, increasing compassion and a myriad of mental health benefits. It is being taught everywhere from yoga classes to business seminars to schools. Still the question is often asked: how can we practice mindfulness “off the mat” and apply it in our daily lives? In Restorative Practices we apply mindfulness every time we sit down to participate in a  Circle or a Restorative Conversation. In fact, mindfulness is essential for the success of a restorative process in a number of ways–through active listening, speaking from the heart, and remaining open to others' truths.

By stepping outside our own thoughts and being willing to fully listen to someone else, we can see  another person in a new light - which can lead to enhanced compassion and willingness to connect or cooperate in a new way. This type of Active Listening is one way in which mindfulness is activated during the circle process.

During the circle, we ask participants to share from the heart in the moment, rather than saying something pre-planned. Oftentimes what comes out is honest and even surprising - perhaps a new insight, or something vulnerable that they don’t usually share out loud. People feel seen and heard, deepening relationships and shedding light on underlying dynamics that are affecting the group. This opportunity to practice noticing and sharing what is present at the moment is another aspect of mindfulness that is an important element of Restorative Practices.

Circles require letting go of preconceived notions of others, and being willing to remain open and hear them share their truth. Mindfulness helps people break out of their habitual ways of interacting, as it is the practice of staying present and breathing through whatever thoughts or feelings arise, including discomfort or presuppositions. When facilitated through Restorative Practices, sharing, listening and connecting in fresh and authentic ways helps groups find breakthroughs and arrive at new outcomes.

Practicing mindfulness in real time also has enormous benefits for school-age youth who are learning to work with their emotions and navigate relationships. In their article “How SEL and Mindfulness Can Work Together,” Linda Lantiere and Vicki Zakrewski wrote:

“By helping students become aware of and then embody the connection between their emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations, students are better able to regulate their emotions, which then impacts things such as their behavior, stress levels, relationships, and ability to focus. In short, mindfulness practices connect students’ inner and outer experiences and help them see the congruence between the two.” 

When young people participate in Restorative Practices, they have a practical, applicable and accessible way of practicing mindfulness. This real-world practice comes in handy when navigating relationships with peers, teachers, and themselves and can equip young people with tools for emotional regulation and healthy communication.

When applied in restorative processes, mindfulness is the foundation for listening, sharing, hearing and truly seeing others in a new light. This is what leads to outcomes that restore and nourish relationships.