Hello gardeners! Drawing and meditation may seem like two completely different activities, but at the roots, they actually share many similarities. Like meditation, drawing requires focus and concentration. When you meditate, you focus your attention on your breath or a particular object. Similarly, when you draw, you focus your attention on the lines, shapes, and colors you are creating. Both can be extremely calming and relaxing and draw your mind to the present moment, which is why they are today's new featured 'Gardening Tool'!
PRESS PLAY TO WATCH GARDENER KELSEY'S SHADOW DRAWING 5 MINUTE CRAFT FOR KIDS
--> All you need is a piece of paper, something to draw with and the shadow of a flower, plant or herb.
Scroll down to read more about the social and emotional health benefits for today's activity & scroll all the way down to download your Gardening Tool Badge!
Our Shadow Drawing Meditation Activity Has Gardener Roots In:
✏️Mood Boosting: Shadow Drawing can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and increase feelings of calmness and relaxation.
✏️Encourages Self-Expression: This activity allows for self-expression in a safe and non-judgmental way, which can help to improve communication skills and build confidence.
✏️Screen Free Activity-That can be done at home or in the classroom
✏️Enhances Mindfulness: When shadow drawing, you can focus on the present moment and let go of distractions, which can help to improve mindfulness and promote a sense of inner peace.
✏️ Builds Resilience: This activity can help to develop problem-solving skills, which can be transferred to other areas of life and enhance resilience.
✏️ Improves Social Connections: Shadow Drawing can be a fun and engaging way to connect with others and build relationships, which is important for overall well-being.
✏️ Great For Gardeners Of All Ages: This activity is enjoyable and calming for any age group.
Gardener Kelsey's note: This activity was inspired by @elisejoy. Your drawings do not have to be perfect! Let your mind relax and use this time more as some meditation time outdoors rather than trying to focus on perfecting your drawing. It can be helpful to do this craft/activity around midday or when the sun is somewhat overhead so you have a clear and crisp shadow (depending on where you live & how much sun your yard/window/balcony gets)!
Hey gardeners, did you do our Shadow Drawing Meditation Exercise? If so, congratulations, you just earned yourself the 'Shadow Drawing Meditation Exercise' Gardening Tool Badge'!
--> Click the badge to download a pdf sticker for your Gardening Tool Badge Collector Sheet