The first step is understanding what is generally meant when the word mindfulness is used in a classroom setting. Below are several descriptions I have found helpful and true.
Mindfulness is paying attention to your life, here and now, with kindness and curiosity. - Amy Saltzman
Mindfulness is the cognitive propensity to be aware of what is happening in the moment without judgement or attachment to any particular outcome. - Maria Napoli
The goal of mindfulness is not to become more relaxed, but to be aware of and accepting of whatever state the body and mind are in. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, but unlike other techniques, mindfulness can be practiced through mindful eating, mindful driving, mindful walking, or any experience in our lives - Dimidjian and Linehan
Mindfulness is a particular way of paying attention. It is the mental faculty of purposefully bringing awareness to one’s experience. Mindfulness can be applied to sensory experience, thoughts, and emotions by using sustained attention and noticing our experience without reacting. Mindfulness creates space changing impulsive reactions to thoughtful responses.
- Mindful Schools
“the awareness that arises from paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment and non-judgmentally” - Jon Kabat-Zinn