Mindfulness Jar

Ever had a moment when you feel overwhelmed and completely stressed by your thoughts, feelings, and emotions? Me too, and hear me when I say: it’s completely normal.

It’s normal to want to yell, shut down, cry, throw something, or fall into a rabbit hole on social media. We’ve all been there. But there are healthier ways to react to stress, and I have one idea for you.

Try making a mindfulness jar. It can serve as a beautiful reminder to take a moment to clear your mind throughout the day.

The glitter particles represent our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. When they’re shaken up, they represent our internal chaos. Once the glitter particles settle, they symbolize mental clarity. You may not have the right solution yet for what’s consuming your thoughts, feelings, or emotions, but taking a moment to honor yourself and be still will help you calm down and think clearly.

How to make a Mindfulness Jar

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• One glass jar or plastic water bottle
• Glitter glue and/or loose glitter
• Hot water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Fill 1/4 of your jar with glitter glue and loose glitter and mix everything up with a spoon.
2. Fill the jar with hot water. This will help dissolve the glue.
3. Screw the lid on your jar and shake it until everything is blended together and the glitter spread throughout.

A few other ways to keep calm and carry on:

• Breathe in for 5 counts, and out for 5 counts.
• Count down backwards from 10…9…8…and so on.
• Listen to music that is peaceful and soothing to you.

Now write down three things you can do to take a calming moment for yourself:

Lauren Perry is the executive director of The Beautiful Foundation, a local nonprofit that provides a safe space for adolescent girls to learn and express themselves. After graduating from Loyola University with a degree in theatre arts and business administration, Lauren worked as a production makeup artist until she realized she loved working with girls and turned this passion into a full-time career. She strives to meet adversity with love and understanding and to achieve balance in all her endeavors.

Special thanks to Colleen Cameron of Project Peaceful Warriors who introduced Lauren to the wonderful concept of mindfulness jars!