Child Life Blog Banner (8)

Mindfulness for Child Life Professionals

We're so glad you're here. This mindfulness page has been curated with intention for child life students and professionals. It shares the simplicities and benefits of active awareness, and provides tools for use in your everyday life. Happy exploring.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness does not have a specific, widely accepted definition, as it means something a little different to the many researchers, scholars, and practitioners who have studied it. Mindfulness may be thought of as a term to describe a variety of practices that approach awareness in unique ways. Mindfulness as a Buddhist concept means memory and a clear awareness of what is happening (Bodhi, 2011), a state of being alert and focusing on here and now (Dalai Lama & Berzin, 1997), and an active, engaged, non-reactive process (Rapgay & Bystrisky, 2009). From a more Western viewpoint, mindfulness is paying attention and being aware of the present moment in a non-judgmental and non-reactive way (Kabat-Zinn, 2015), intentionally bringing awareness to the present moment without judgement (Siegel, 2012), and awareness of and open attention to present events and experience (Brown, et. al., 2007). Another concept of mindfulness involves our cognitive abilities; creation of new things, being open to new information, and being aware of more than one perspective (Langer, 1989). 

For our purposes here, we hope to welcome, illuminate, and highlight all concepts of mindfulness to really capture the breadth of mindfulness practice and share many of the positive impacts it has on a variety of users.

Why Practice Mindfulness?

 

As a helping profession, individuals learning and working in child life are susceptible to compassion fatigue, burnout, and difficulty achieving work-life balance (Meadors et al., 2010). This makes the implementation of regular self-care practices essential. Mindfulness is one of many ways to show compassion to yourself. Whether you’re a student or seasoned professional, there are evidenced-based reasons to develop a mindful routine. 

Green List Benefits of White Tea Instagram Story

Mindfulness:

  1. Decreases burnout in health care professionals (Goodman & Schorling, 2012)
  2. Reduces stress, depression, and anxiety in healthcare professionals (Kriakous et al., 2020)
  3. Reduces students’ perceived stress (Maher, 2021)
  4. Helps regulate automatic responses, thereby reducing implicit bias (Lueke & Gibson, 2014)
  5. Improves job performance and reduces turnover (Dane & Brummel, 2013)
  6. Serves as a protective factor in coping and dealing with COVID-19 (Dillard & Meier, 2021)
  7. Fosters creative insight and problem solving (Hester, 2021)
  8. Improves sleep patterns and daytime fatigue (Huberty et al., 2021)
  9. Enhances emotional regulation (Jiménez-Picón, 2021)
  10. Improves attention and working memory (Yakobi et al., 2021)
These are just some of the mental, physical, and socioemotional benefits associated with mindfulness. Another reason to consider embracing mindfulness is that interventions can be brief, and results can be immediate (Kemper, 2017). A few minutes paying attention to your thoughts, movement, breath, feelings, or surroundings is all it takes. In the resources below, you will find a variety of accessible on-the-go, as well as in-depth, mindful practices to incorporate into your daily routine.

Free Online Resources:

Calm. (2022). Mindfulness resources — Calm blog. https://www.calm.com/blog/mindfulness-resources
Free downloadable journals, guidebooks, and calendars to help foster a mindfulness practice in your life.

Hanh, T. N. (2022, January 27). Thich Nhat Hanh on the practice of mindfulness. Lion's Roar. https://www.lionsroar.com/mindful-living-thich-nhat-hanh-on-the-practice-of-mindfulness-march-2010/
Five mindful practices provided by Thich Nhat Hanh - a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, activist, author, poet, and teacher who is recognized as the "father of mindfulness."

Mindful Communications & Such, PBC. (2022). mindful: healthy mind, healthy life. Mindful. https://www.mindful.org/
A large variety of mindful content including articles, script/audio/video meditations, mindful movements, breathwork, and directories for mindful coaches and events. Categories include: How to Meditate, Focus, Calm, Sleep, Movement, Compassion, Kids, and Anxiety.

Newman, K. M., & Ho, J. (2021, March 12). Five free mindfulness apps worthy of your attention. Mindful. https://www.mindful.org/free-mindfulness-apps-worthy-of-your-attention/
5 free mindfulness apps available for download and descriptions of what they have to offer.

Sean Fargo. (2022). Mindfulness exerciseshttps://mindfulnessexercises.com/#
An assortment of free mindfulness exercises in the form of courses, worksheets, video and audio files.

University of California, San Diego. (2022). Mindfulness & compassion resources. Centers for Integrative Health. https://cih.ucsd.edu/mindfulness/mindfulness-compassion-resources

Poetry, meditations, body scans, and mindful movement offerings. Some resources available in various languages.

Winston, D. (2011-2021). Guided meditations. Guided Meditations - UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center - Los Angeles, CA. Retrieved from https://www.uclahealth.org/marc/mindful-meditations#Mandarin An assortment of guided meditation audio/scripts in English, Armenian, Cantonese, Farsi, Filipino, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Mixtec, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese, and American Sign Language.

References

Bodhi, B. (2011). What does mindfulness really mean? A canonical perspective. Contemporary Buddhism, 12(1), 19–39. doi:10.1080/ 14639947.2011.564813.

Brown, K. W., Ryan, R. M., & Creswell, J. D. (2007). Mindfulness: theoretical foundations and evidence for its salutary effects. Psychological Inquiry, 18(4), 211–237. doi:10.1080/ 10478400701598298.

Dalai Lama, & Berzin, A. (1997). The Gelug/Kagyu tradition of Mahamudra. New York, NY: Snow Lion.

Dane, E., & Brummel, B. J. (2013). Examining workplace mindfulness and its relations to job performance and turnover intention. Human Relations67(1), 105-128. https://doi.org/10.1177/0018726713487753

Dillard, A. J., & Meier, B. P. (2021). Trait mindfulness is negatively associated with distress related to COVID-19. Personality and Individual Differences179, 110955. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2021.110955

Goldstein, E. (2013, May 29). Stressing out? S.T.O.P. Mindful. https://www.mindful.org/stressing-out-stop/

Goodman, M. J., & Schorling, J. B. (2012). A mindfulness course decreases burnout and improves well-being among healthcare providers. The International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine43(2), 119-128. https://doi.org/10.2190/pm.43.2.b

Hester, D. M., Jr. (2021). The role of mindfulness in creativity and problem solving (Order No. 28321176). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2513201519). Retrieved from https://proxy.lib.umich.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/role-mindfulness-creativity-problem-solving/docview/2513201519/se-2?accountid=14667

Huberty, J. L., Green, J., Puzia, M. E., Larkey, L., Laird, B., Vranceanu, A., Vlisides-Henry, R., & Irwin, M. R. (2021). Testing a mindfulness meditation mobile app for the treatment of sleep-related symptoms in adults with sleep disturbance: A randomized controlled trial. PLOS ONE16(1), e0244717. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0244717

Jiménez-Picón, N., Romero-Martín, M., Ponce-Blandón, J. A., Ramirez-Baena, L., Palomo-Lara, J. C., & Gómez-Salgado, J. (2021). The relationship between mindfulness and emotional intelligence as a protective factor for healthcare professionals: Systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health18(10), 5491. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18105491

Kabat-Zinn, J. (2015). Mindfulness6(6), 1481–1483. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-015-0456-x

Kemper, K. J. (2017). Brief Online Mindfulness Training. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 22(1), 75–80. doi: 10.1177/2156587216639199

Kriakous, S. A., Elliott, K. A., Lamers, C., & Owen, R. (2020). The effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction on the psychological functioning of healthcare professionals: A systematic review. Mindfulness12(1), 1-28. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-020-01500-9

Langer, E. J. (1989). Mindfulness. Cambridge, MA: Da Capo Press

Lueke, A., & Gibson, B. (2014). Mindfulness meditation reduces implicit age and race bias. Social Psychological and Personality Science6(3), 284-291. https://doi.org/10.1177/1948550614559651

Maher, C. (2021). The benefits of mindfulness for University students. Building Healthy Academic Communities Journal5(1), 42-57. https://doi.org/10.18061/bhac.v5i1.7735

Thera, N. (1968). The power of mindfulness. Wheel Publication, 1-75.

Rapgay, L., & Bystrisky, A. (2009). Classical mindfulness: an introduction to its theory and practice for clinical application. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1172, 148–162. doi:10.1111/j.1749- 6632.2009.04405.x.

Scott, E. (2020). How to become more mindful in your everyday life. Verywell Mind, 13 July 2020, www.verywellmind.com/mindfulness-exercises-for-everyday-life-3145187.

Siegel, D. J. (2007). The mindful brain: reflection and attunement in the cultivation of well-being. New York, NY: Norton.

Yakobi, O., Smilek, D., & Danckert, J. (2021). The effects of mindfulness meditation on attention, executive control and working memory in healthy adults: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Cognitive Therapy and Research45(4), 543-560. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-020-10177-2

Leave a comment

Leave a comment
  1. sa | Nov 28, 2025
    This video covers benefits, real user experiences, complaints, risks, and everything you need to know before buying Pulsetto Fit online. Pulsetto Fit Review
  2. rose | Nov 27, 2025
    For anyone new to toto, I'd suggest checking out 먹튀모음 first.td {border: 1px solid #cccccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}
  3. sa | Nov 27, 2025
    In this FATAL BLACKOUT review i told you important information about this product to help you decide if this product is right for you. FATAL BLACKOUT
  4. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    In this Fatal Blackout Review 2025, we evaluate whether this survival system can truly prepare you and your family for extended power outages, grid failures and emergency situations. Fatal Blackout Reviews
  5. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    The 15-Second Gelatin Trick That’s Taking Over TikTok — A Smart Way to Feel Full & Beat Cravings! Bariatric Gelatin Recipe
  6. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    SciatiEase uses a blend of natural ingredients. Unlike prescription drugs, the supplement is generally well-tolerated and has no reported severe side effects. SciatiEase Sciatic Nerve Health Support Supplement
  7. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    In this video, I test Fry’s Investment Report 2025 to see if it really works. FRY'S INVESTMENT REPORT
  8. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    Welcome to Alpa189 ! Here, even casual play is rewarded. ALPA189
  9. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    Tekno189 is giving away launch prizes, bro! Activate Booster Mode, collect rewards, and prepare for your vacation with exciting surprises, only here. TEKNO189
  10. sa | Nov 26, 2025
    DDPCHAIN, with more than 7 years of experience in shipping from China to Iran by different methods like sea and air, is ready to be your shipping agent in China. air freight to Iran
  11. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    At its core, Soulmate Sketch is more than a simple drawing—it’s a psychic interpretation of your destined partner. Soulmate Sketch Review
  12. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Soulmate Sketch is one of the most talked-about spiritual services of 2025, promising to deliver a personalized psychic soulmate sketch created by a gifted intuitive artist. Soulmate Sketch
  13. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    We are Team Castro Boxing Club , a training center with over 7 years of experience located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. gimnasio boxeo Arucas
  14. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Join us this Christmas, as we explore the deeper spiritual meaning and significance behind your favourite Christmas traditions and symbols. Christmas Church Services Melbourne
  15. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    This Blue Salt Recipe helps men feel energized, revitalized, and ready to take on demanding daily routines confidently. Blue salt for men
  16. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Enjoy a simple Blue Salt Recipe crafted to support men’s natural endurance and long-lasting energy throughout busy days. Blue salt for men
  17. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Support your daily stamina with this Blue Salt blend known for refreshing the body and boosting natural vitality. Blue salt for men
  18. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Try the Blue Salt Recipe formulated to naturally refresh your body, improve focus, and support all-day endurance. Blue salt for men
  19. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Discover the Blue Salt Recipe crafted for men seeking natural vitality, enhanced energy, and improved daily performance. Blue salt for men
  20. sa | Nov 22, 2025
    Easy-to-win gacor slots today, which is currently trending and has players frequently maxing out with the RTP feature for online slots with various variants. dewibola
  21. Royal Escort Club | Nov 21, 2025

    Enjoy sensual moments with elegant young call girls Bengaluru who provide romantic companionship, charm, and satisfaction. Spend private time full of passion, comfort, and real emotional connection.

  22. sa | Nov 21, 2025
    ProstaVive offers a safe, natural, and effective solution for men struggling with prostate-related issues. Postavive
  23. sa | Nov 21, 2025
    GLPRO is a natural dietary supplement formulated to help support normal blood sugar levels and promote balanced energy throughout the day. glpro blood sugar
  24. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    28BET – Vietnam's leading e-game paradise! From Slots to Fish Shooting. 28bet
  25. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Join 28BET today to receive. lucky money every day - up to 8,888K! 28bet
  26. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    In this detailed Synaptigen review, we’ll cover complaints, real results, and how to avoid fake products. Synaptigen Supplement
  27. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Memory Lift is a natural nootropic supplement designed to support memory, focus, and overall brain health. Memory Lift Review
  28. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    The brain song for memory trains your brain to remember details by pairing melodies with mental associations. The Brain Song Audio
  29. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    The brain song for memory helps sharpen focus and retention through soothing musical cues designed for cognitive enhancement. The Brain Song Review
  30. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Improve learning effortlessly with the brain song for memory, using melodic patterns to lock information into long-term storage. The Brain Song Audio
  31. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    This Himalayan pink salt recipe for weight loss boosts mineral intake, improves digestion, and encourages natural calorie-burning. HOW THIS HIMALAYAN
  32. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Try a Himalayan pink salt recipe for weight loss that improves gut health, boosts energy, and facilitates steady fat-burning. REAL PINK SALT
  33. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    A daily Himalayan pink salt recipe for weight loss helps cleanse toxins, curb cravings, and maintain healthy metabolic function. PINK SALT TRICK
  34. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Use this Himalayan pink salt recipe for weight loss to enhance hydration, reduce bloating, and support a smoother metabolism. DISCOVER THE PINK SALT
  35. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    This Himalayan pink salt recipe for weight loss helps detoxify the body, boost metabolism, and support natural fat reduction daily. ASHLEY SMITH’S HIMALAYAN
  36. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    The simple honey trick for brain strength delivers quick glucose for focus, improving learning ability and mental alertness. WHAT IS THE HONEY TRICK
  37. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    This honey trick for brain power helps improve concentration, stabilize mood, and nourish neurons with natural antioxidants. HONEY TRICK RECIPE
  38. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    The honey trick for brain health boosts memory, sharpens focus, and naturally fuels mental clarity with essential nutrients. HONEY TRICK FOR MEMORY
  39. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    A Blue Salt-based mix that boosts male performance naturally. SALT TRICK FOR MEN
  40. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Salt Trick for Men today and see how a simple daily habit can supercharge your stamina, confidence, and energy. BLUE SALT TRICK
  41. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    Blue Salt for Men — a rare mineral-rich salt known for boosting circulation and energy. CELTIC SALT TRICK
  42. sa | Nov 20, 2025
    The Salt Trick is a simple yet powerful natural method designed to improve male vitality and stamina. HOW THE BLUE SALT
  43. sa | Nov 19, 2025
    20 EDU and GOV Backlinks High Quality - Get High Authority PR7, PR8 and PR9 backlinks from .GOV and .EDU domains to your website. I will manually build these few but most powerful dofollow links; PR4 - PR9 Links from .Gov domains and few authority .Edu backlinks for Rp. 30.000, exclusively on p-store.net! jasa backlink edu
  44. sa | Nov 19, 2025
    My vision is to continue growing as a lawyer , expanding my experience and offering increasingly personalized and effective legal representation. Abogado penalista Las Palmas
  45. sa | Nov 19, 2025
    TOP1TOTO is a login link for an online lottery (toto) site that ranks first on Google search results. This site offers a modern, user-friendly interface for trusted online lottery and toto gambling games, offering easy wins with a 100 silver bet. top1toto
  46. sa | Nov 19, 2025
    บาคาร่า ออนไลน์ ผ่านมือถือ ไม่ต้องดาวน์โหลด, watch games and view historical archives of the winningest high school football program in the nation. บาคาร่า
  47. sa | Nov 18, 2025
    The Brain Song CD and audio system use frequencies said to stimulate BDNF production, which supports brain cell growth and repair. The Brain Song
  48. sa | Nov 18, 2025
    Soulmate Sketch is one of the most talked-about spiritual services of 2025, promising to deliver a personalized psychic soulmate sketch created by a gifted intuitive artist. Soulmate Sketch
  49. sa | Nov 18, 2025
    Emura Non Stick Pan uses PEEK coating, which is free from PFOA and heavy metals. Emura Non-Stick Pan
  50. sa | Nov 18, 2025
    Nitric Boost Ultra is the ultimate nitric oxide booster for men who want real results — more stamina, stronger erections, and improved performance naturally. NITRIC BOOST ULTRA REVIEWS

    Child Life Profession