Teaching Mindfulness in Dialectical Behavior Therapy: 10 Exercises to Foster Expertise in Youth

Mindfulness, a cornerstone of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), is a powerful tool for helping youth manage their emotions and navigate life’s challenges. Teaching mindfulness effectively can significantly enhance their resilience and well-being. This article provides ten mindfulness exercises designed to foster expertise in youth.

1. Mindful Breathing: This simple exercise involves focusing on the breath as it flows in and out. It’s a great starting point for teaching mindfulness, as it can be done anywhere and at any time.

2. Body Scan: In this exercise, youth are guided to focus their attention on different parts of their body, from their toes to their head. This helps them develop a greater awareness of their physical presence and sensations.

3. Mindful Eating: This exercise involves eating a small piece of food (like a raisin or a piece of chocolate) very slowly, paying attention to the taste, texture, and smell. It’s a fun and engaging way to practice mindfulness.

4. Mindful Walking: Walking mindfully involves focusing on the sensation of walking, such as the feeling of the ground under the feet. This can be done during a short walk in a park or even in a hallway.

5. Mindful Listening: In this exercise, youth are asked to close their eyes and focus on the sounds around them. This can help them learn to focus their attention and be present in the moment.

6. Mindfulness of Thoughts: This exercise involves observing thoughts as they arise and pass, without judgment. It can be particularly helpful for youth who struggle with intrusive or distressing thoughts.

7. Mindfulness of Emotions: In this exercise, youth are guided to identify and observe their emotions without trying to change them. This can help them develop a healthier relationship with their emotions.

8. Loving-Kindness Meditation: This involves silently repeating phrases of goodwill toward oneself and others (e.g., “May I be happy. May I be safe.”) It’s a powerful way to foster self-compassion and empathy.

9. Mindful Coloring: Coloring can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to practice mindfulness. Encourage youth to focus on the process of coloring, rather than the end result.

10. Five Senses Exercise: In this exercise, youth are asked to name five things they can see, four things they can touch, three things they can hear, two things they can smell, and one thing they can taste. This helps them connect with their immediate environment and the present moment.

Teaching mindfulness to youth in DBT requires creativity, patience, and a deep understanding of their unique needs and experiences. By implementing these exercises, you can foster their expertise in mindfulness, empowering them to manage their emotions more effectively and navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience. Remember, the goal of teaching mindfulness is not to eliminate distress but to provide youth with a tool to manage it more effectively.