Movement & Sound for Students with Special Needs
Emily Doe of Movement Foundations and I recently delivered a movement and sound meditation session with 16-18 year olds at Warmley Park School.
The school supports pupils aged 3-19 with severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple difficulties, those on the Autistic Spectrum, as well as additional needs including sensory impairments and physical disabilities.
“It made me feel good that all the students on their own were very engaged with the experience. Emily and Ruth were very good and adapted the activities for everyone. It was a very beautiful surprise hearing all of the sounds. I wish students could have more opportunities for these sorts of experiences.”
Wellbeing
Mindful movement and sound meditation is something all participants were able to engage with.
As well as promoting wellbeing and enjoyment, students were able to develop and progress in their unique ways, feeling safe and comfortable throughout the experience.
“When we were lying down, I liked listening to the different sounds. I drifted off to sleep. Afterwards I felt relaxed and chilled”
Self-awareness
Students experienced the connection between the body, mind and emotions and how movement, sound and meditation support this connection.
They learned that it’s okay to be who they are and feel whatever they feel, which encouraged more self-awareness and acceptance.
“It was good, it was great, it was brilliant! It made me feel calm and relaxed and much happier. I felt grown up - my voice changed!”
Self-regulation
The students also learned tips and techniques to reduce stress and maintain their sense of calm and inner peace.
By learning self-regulation tools, they can use them when facing difficult emotions.
“It relaxed me but also gave me energy. I was worried I wouldn’t sleep at night but I did sleep.”
Through our sessions, we give students coping mechanisms they can use on a daily and long-term basis, supporting them to maintain their wellbeing.
Our aim is for students to experience increased confidence and self-esteem, enabling them to express themselves healthily and freely in different areas of their lives.
