Q: What is mindful parenting?
A: Mindful Parenting is a contemplative
practice through which we become more mindful of the presence of our
children in our lives and, in doing so, experience a more joyful life.
Q: What is mindfulness?
A: Mindfulness can be described in
many ways. The Mindful Parent considers "mindfulness" as a
process in which a human being (or any living creature) rests
the mind such that it does not reflect on the past or focus
on the future. Rather it simply is one with the present moment
as it happens.
Click here for links to resources on "mindfulness."
Q: Is
mindful parenting part of a specific religion?
A:
No. The practice of mindful parenting is not associated
with any religion. It may be considered a spiritual practice.
Q: Is
mindful parenting a method for parenting?
A: No.
The practice of mindful parenting is not intended to be a parenting
tool. It is an approach to mindful living intended that focuses
on the parent, not the child. Through mindful parenting, one
may well develop a broader perspective that influences how one parents
by bringing greater awareness and understanding into the process.
Q: Would it make sense to use verses when you are with
your child?
A: Of course. Mindful parenting
takes place both when we are with and when we are away from our child. For
example, it is not uncommon for parents to read to
their children while their thoughts are miles away -- focusing
on some project or an argument they had earlier in the day.
Or perhaps just focusing on a television show they want to watch.
The mindful parenting verse on "Reading to Your Child" found in the
book "Mindful Parenting: Verses For a More Joyful Life" by Scott
Rogers helps to discard the distractions and to cherish
the moment. Sometimes it is the cas that it is "in sight, out
of mind."
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