Mindfulness is a strategy that can help with managing stress, increasing emotional regulation, and improving overall well-being. In a group setting on a mental health unit, mindfulness exercises can promote a sense of community, opportunities for support, and shared recovery. It doesn’t take elaborate planning to develop engaging activities! Here are 10 easy ideas for mindfulness groups that can make the practice accessible and enjoyable while being budget-friendly and easy to set up.
1. Guided progressive muscle relaxation
What you’ll need: a script for guided progressive muscle relaxation like this one, or an audio/video to play for the group
What to do: read out the script in a calm, soothing tone, or simply play your audio/video
2. Meditation
What you’ll need: comfortable seating or mats to sit on, and calming music/a guided meditation video (optional) like this one
What to do: set up a space for folks to get comfy, and if you’re using a video, simply hit play!
3. Puzzles
What you’ll need: jigsaw puzzles, printouts of mazes/word searches/sudoku, and pencils
What to do: set up different stations for folks to engage in whichever activity they prefer
4. Sensory experiences
What you’ll need: toys or objects that have different tactile sensations, such as fuzzy blankets, a small bucket of sand, stress balls, slime, fidget toys, magnets, or even a bucket of iced water
What to do: provide several options and encourage folks to close their eyes while focusing on the sensation
5. Guided imagery/visualization
What you’ll need: a script written by you, or by someone else like these examples
What to do: read out the script in a calm, soothing tone
6. Coloring or painting
What you’ll need: coloring sheets/blank paper and coloring/painting supplies
What to do: there are no rules when it comes to art!
7. Morning/evening stretching
What you’ll need: chairs or mats (both optional), a demo video like this one
What to do: whether you choose to lead or put on a demo video, folks can follow along to do standing, seated, or floor stretches to wake up their body or wind down for the evening
8. Tai chi
What you’ll need: tai chi knowledge or a video like this, and a ample space for movement
What to do: play the video or lead your group through the movements
9. Outdoor walks
What you’ll need: nothing!
What to do: pick a walking trail or garden to stroll around, taking the opportunity to absorb all that nature has to give
10. Cloudgazing
What you’ll need: chairs, mats, towels, or picnic blankets, and a partly cloudy sky
What to do: find a scenic spot outdoors (or indoors with a big window), get comfy in your seat, and marvel at all the unique clouds!
Looking for more ideas for recreational activities to do in a mental health unit? Check out 100 Activities To Do in a Mental Health Unit.