This exercise is great for classrooms in order to help focus attention.
Using a singing bowl or a tuning fork, allow the students to sit quietly and focus on the bell. Let them know this is an exercise in listening and to place their hand on their heart when they stop hearing the sound.
Let’s give Mindful Listening a try:
Ask everyone to close their eyes.
Start to focus on your breathing.
Ring the bell.
Listen to the bell.
The will start to place their hands on their heart once they stop hearing the sound.
When all students have their hand on their heart, ask them to open their eyes.
Ask them what the experience was like: did the sound surprise them, did it change, did it ring for a long or short time, how did it make them feel, etc. This is a great moment to create community and connection, especially when considering that there are no right or wrong answers.