Picture: Mindfulness at the workplace-imagine…
Earlier in the week, I was running around my new workplace getting acquainted with the unfamiliar, gaining access codes, new keys, and swiftly walking into yet another new office space. I was sweating because with my mind all aflutter with to-do lists, I hadn’t yet learned to take off my massive parka, hat, gloves, scarf and place all of these belongings in the lobby rack. Imagine my surprise as I open the door to what I’m hoping is the right room, I am struck instantly by the calm and quiet. All employees standing quietly listening to an instructor leading them through a series of stretches and mindfulness lessons. I’ve read about this and often wished I could be a part of a group of professionals who’d value this type of time each day, however I’ve never seen it in action…pure amazement on my face as I watched from the sidelines so as not to disturb their mindfulness practice. After a bit my US ‘go go go go’ mentality kicks in telling me I must get the next item off my list accomplished. However, this vision stuck with me for several days and I began to imagine what this would look like at home.
Imagine a gathering of education professionals coming together for a meeting. I can hear your groans as you read this:) Instead, visualize a group of professionals walking quietly into a room that has already been set up with tables pushed to the side and yoga mats placed along the floor. As each colleague walks in they knowingly remove their shoes and quietly take their place on the floor, some with blankets brought from home. The lights dim and all are quietly listening to the directions given. No time is spent on, “The agenda today is…” Rather, the mindfulness and meditation occurs straight away and lasts for 40 minutes. All participants are respectful, all take part, and all embrace the benefits from this exercise. As 1 or 2 arrive late they find their spot quickly and quietly so as to not interfere, blending in and honoring the space of the their colleagues during this mindfulness practice. As the session ends, colleagues begin to engage in calm and quiet conversation as each person takes their part in placing the room back together, rolling up mats, putting chairs back, and slowly walking towards the next step of the program. It seems as though all are walking through water with movements slow and deliberate with a soft smile as a gift from the previous 40 minutes.
A line forms as a meal of healthy salad, tea/coffee/water, and fresh baked breads are presented to nourish the colleague’s bodies. Options are all healthy with gluten free and peanut-free choices. The line runs smoothly as people are patient and willing to take their time choosing from the 5 various salad options. Each person takes a seat not saving places for a specific person, but welcoming whom so ever comes to their table. A delicious meal is supplemented with quiet conversations of families, work, vacations, hopes for future. As the meal comes to a close all walk to a new room.
This new room is set up with stool cushions for all to sit on, allowing for flexible seating. The room fills with anticipation and a few giggle in quiet tones as they await further instruction. In front of the room 5 individuals prepare to complete an artistic improvisation of the information each of the colleagues share in small groups. Some humor unfolds, some tears at the loss of a loved one, and hopes all transcribed onto the stage. The purpose is quite clear: it is to bring the professionals together. Small groups are encouraged discussing the struggles of the past year with more impromptu improvisations depicting the challenges on stage. The session ends with a performance based on shared out visions for the year to come. At the conclusion, applause is given and each individual leaves respectfully with no further unnecessary chatter, leaving work behind. Imagine, just imagine if this was your work environment.
It’s hard to believe, but this wasn’t from my imagination: this actually occurred. I am grateful for the Department of Education at JYU for inviting me to participate in their staff gathering. Even with everything being in Finnish, the entire evening was incredible and the mood and approach transferred across any language barriers.