For today’s activity, I gave each student a battery operated tea light candle. I put a snowy cabin scene from YouTube on the SMART Board. I asked students to imagine that the candle represents something important to them, a friend, a loved one or some one they have lost. We Took a few moments to hold space for them and enjoy the cabin scene. A more advanced option would be for students to close their eyes and the teacher could read the script I have included. If you give this a try, let me know how it goes!
Materials Needed:
• LED candles (safe for classroom use)
• Soft winter-themed instrumental music (optional)
• Blank paper and pens/pencils (for reflection)
Activity Steps:
1. Setting the Mood: Dim the lights and place the LED candles around the room to create a calming, cozy winter ambiance. Play soft instrumental music, such as piano or nature sounds like wind and snow falling.
2. Guided Visualization:
• Have students sit comfortably with their eyes closed or gazing softly at the flickering candlelight.
• Lead them through a calming winter visualization, such as:
“Imagine you’re walking through a quiet winter forest. The ground is blanketed in fresh snow. You hear the soft crunch of your footsteps, the faint rustle of trees, and the distant call of a bird. Notice how the cold air feels on your skin and the warmth of your coat. As you walk, you come across a cozy cabin with smoke curling from the chimney. You step inside, feeling the warmth of the fire, and take a moment to just sit and enjoy the stillness.”
3. Silent Reflection: After the visualization, give students a few minutes to sit quietly and reflect on how they feel. Encourage them to notice any sensations or thoughts without judgment.
4. Journaling or Drawing: Provide students with paper and pens/pencils. Ask them to write or draw about their experience. Prompts can include:
• What did you notice during the visualization?
• What feelings or thoughts came up for you?
• What does “warmth” mean to you during the winter season?
5. Group Discussion (Optional): Invite students to share their experiences or reflections if they feel comfortable.
