Glossary

Foundations and common phrases used in everyday mindfulness

Mindfulness

Paying attention to what you’re doing right now, with kindness and without judgement.

Present Moment Awareness

Focusing on what’s happening in the here and now - not the past or future.

Breathing Space

Taking a short break to breathe, notice your body, and reset.

Mindful Pause

Stopping for just a few seconds to check in with how you're feeling.

Loving Kindness

Sending good wishes to yourself and others. A practice for growing compassion.

Compassion Practice

Techniques that help us treat ourselves and others with kindness.

Guided Meditation

A voice or recording that gently talks you through a mindfulness practice.

Outdoor Mindfulness Camp
A fun, nature-filled experience where children play, learn and relax using mindful tools and creative activities.

Outdoor Mindfulness Workshop Children are invited to engage with nature-based activities such as den-building, Sound Maps, Nature Scavenger Hunts and Walking Meditations. All activities are presented in a fun, age-appropriate way.

Nature-Based Learning
Learning that takes place outdoors or uses natural materials – proven to boost mood and focus.

Transition Techniques
Mindful moments used between activities (like after break time or before bedtime) to help children refocus.

Calm Corner / Peaceful Place
A quiet area in a home or classroom where children can reset and feel safe.

Mindful Routines
Everyday habits that build calm – like breathing before meals or noticing nature on the school run.

How mindfulness fits into homes, schools and everyday routines

Healing Garden
A calming space filled with nature – plants, water, and fresh air – created to support wellbeing.

Eco-Anxiety
Feeling anxious or worried about the planet and climate change.

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)
A gentle, slow walk through nature while paying close attention to the sights, smells and sounds. The focus is not about exercise – it’s about being fully present, and feeling part of the natural environment.

Eco-Therapy
Using nature to help support mental health and emotional well-being.

Green Time
Time spent in nature – walking, playing, or simply noticing what's around you.

Nature Connection
Spending time with the natural world to feel grounded, calm and part of something bigger.

Words that connect us to the outdoors and natural healing

Breathing Exercises
Techniques to calm the nervous system – like Balloon Breathing, Mountain Breathing or 3:5 breathing.

Mindful Crafts
Creative activities like nature art or calm jars that focus attention and help children relax.

Sensory Play
Activities that involve touch, sound, smell, and sight to help children engage and calm.

Mindful Movement
Moving your body slowly and with awareness—like yoga, stretching, Tai Chi, Qigong, or even mindful walking.

Regulation Tools
Activities or items that help calm big feelings—like deep breaths, sensory bottles, or fidget objects.

Grounding Techniques
Simple ways to bring yourself back to the moment, like focusing on your feet on the ground or noticing 5 things you can see, smell, touch, taste and hear.

Practical things used in mindfulness and nature-based work

Body Scan
Noticing how each part of your body feels, one at a time. Helps with relaxation and awareness.

Window of Tolerance
The range of emotions a child can manage before feeling overwhelmed. Mindfulness helps widen this window.

Anchor Spot
A favourite natural place where a child can go to feel safe, calm and connected.

Emotional Literacy
Understanding and naming feelings. Helps children express themselves in healthy ways.

Co-Regulation
When a child feels calmer by being with a calm, supportive adult.

Self-Regulation
Being able to notice and manage big feelings, like frustration, sadness, anger or excitement.

Terms parents & professionals may hear in emotional wellbeing support

Our guide to common terms used in mindfulness, nature connection, and forest bathing.