Student Wellbeing

Making sense of modern mindfulness through a Christian lens

“Mindfulness” is a word that seems to be everywhere, used in schools, counselling, and everyday conversations. While some people find it helpful, for others it raises thoughtful concerns.

So what is mindfulness, and is it something we should be cautious about?

What is mindfulness?

In short, mindfulness is intentional awareness of the present moment. Noticing thoughts, feelings, and body sensations without immediately reacting. In a school setting, this can look like helping students slow their breathing, notice how they feel, name emotions, pause before responding, and focus their attention.

These are practical tools that support children in managing stress, building emotional awareness, and engaging in learning.

A conversation worth having

I recognise that mindfulness can raise some uncertainty, and that’s something worth acknowledging and exploring together. Mindfulness has connections to a range of traditions, including Eastern religions, and is now widely used in modern psychology. While some aspects align with biblical wisdom, others can shift the focus away from God and toward the “self.”

This is where discernment matters. As Christians, we know that what God has created can be twisted or redirected away from Him. That’s why it’s important to consider not just the practice itself, but the worldview behind it.

Dr Katherine Thompson, in Christ-Centred Mindfulness, speaks into this well. She highlights that "mindfulness without a moral or spiritual framework can be unhelpful, and reminds us of the importance of staying grounded in prayer and Scripture as our guide."

A biblical foundation for attentiveness

While the term “mindfulness” is modern, the idea of being intentionally aware and reflective is deeply biblical. Scripture calls us to “be still” (Psalm 46:10), to take our thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), and to remain connected to Christ as branches to the vine (John 15:5).

Dr Thompson describes this as being “mindfully engaged”. Present and aware as we move through life. While also grounded in our identity in Christ. This grows through love, surrender, and a deepening relationship with God through prayer and Scripture.

How we approach mindfulness

At Emmaus, we approach mindfulness thoughtfully, using helpful strategies in a way that aligns with a Christ‑centred worldview. Rather than a stand-alone practice, we see it as a way to help students slow down, become aware of what is happening within them, and create space to be attentive to God.

These skills support students to recognise when they feel overwhelmed, pause and respond thoughtfully, and notice their thoughts and emotions. Importantly, this awareness is not the goal. It is a starting point, helping students bring what they notice before God rather than navigating it alone.

This reflects our belief that we are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), that our thoughts and emotions matter, and that true peace is found in Christ (John 14:27).

In this way, mindfulness is not about turning inward in isolation, but about being attentive to ourselves with God present. It is simply a supporting tool to help students engage more deeply with God, others, and their learning.

Jordan Wheatcroft

Student Counsellor

Welcome Shekaina, our new Student Counsellor at Brooklyn Park

We are delighted to welcome Shekaina Thomas,our new Junior School Counsellor at Brooklyn Park. She will be working alongside Jordan Wheatcroft two days a week.

We are very excited to have Shekaina join us and look forward to the knowledge and expertise she brings to the wellbeing space, along with her warm and caring nature.

Shekaina will be taking over from our wonderful Mel Batchelor, who has now taken on additional days at our South Plympton campus.  Please feel free to say a warm hello to her.

Regards 

Tash King

Director Of Counselling