Stress reduction through the integration of mindfulness-based trainings into everyday school life
The restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic pose a major challenge, particularly in educational contexts. One area that is rarely addressed in this context is the effect of corona-related restrictions on the increased stress levels of pupils. Current data from the WHO shows that the stress levels of pupils in Germany have increased significantly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and that there is a need for support.
To counteract this trend, mindfulness-based training is offered in schools as part of this project. Mindfulness describes a specific form of present-moment awareness and a nonjudgemental attitude towards feelings, thoughts and body perceptions. Various studies show that mindfulness-based training helps to reduce stress and increase subjective well-being. The mindfulness training we use is based on the Berliner Achtsamkeitstraining zur Leistungsförderung? (BATL; Kittler et al., 2017) and consists of 6 units of 1 hour each. Each unit includes a psychoeducational part on mindfulness and its effects, group discussions, examples from everyday life and various mindfulness exercises. The measures are carried out by students of the GU Frankfurt as a supplement to regular lessons.
The aim of this project is to use mindfulness training to reduce the increased stress experienced by pupils as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and to positively influence various psychological characteristics (including subjective well-being). The project expands the concept of "School and Health - Movement and Perception" already implemented at some schools by the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs.
Project management: Prof. Dr. Chris Englert
Collaborator: Lea Mülberger
Funded by the Hessian Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs - "Löwenstark"