OVERCOMING RESISTANCE

What does resistance look like?

• Negative comments about the program
• Distracting other students during mindfulness practice
• Refusal to participate
• Acting out
• Body language that obviously demonstrates disinterest in practicing along

Resolutions

Understanding

As kids go inward, it can be difficult to face aspects of their lives that may be easier to avoid with distraction. When they repeatedly go inward, they face these challenges directly.

Silence may be uncomfortable for some students. Expect some students to fidget when they first start practicing. Also, there is no need to force students to close their eyes. Students who are hesitant may gaze downward or even look at the calming scene projected from the Inner Explorer Practice area.

Recommendations

• Persevere. Initial resistance tends to resolve on its own. Try not to focus on the difficult behavior and continue to practice.
• If the majority of students are resisting mindfulness, consider trying transition or sound practices that are shorter in length and building up to full-length practices.
• Talk to the students about their behavior. Have an honest and open conversation about their reactions.
• Easing into the practice might be better for some students. Offer journaling or drawing quietly while the class is practicing. Set the expectation that over time you hope they will join in, and in the meantime to please be respectful of classmates who are practicing.
• Try sitting next to students who struggle. Your proximity will help them settle.

Ask For Help

Contact Inner Explorer at info@innerexplorer.org and describe your experience. We are happy to help.
Sometimes resistance is the result of trauma. Refer to counseling and school administration for significant issues.