This week is Mental Health Awareness Week in MIS. At Monday’s assembly, school counselor Ms. Jenny Jiang kicked off the event with an insightful speech. She emphasized that mental health is a broad and profound topic, deeply intertwined with all aspects of life and connected to multiple academic subjects. Throughout the week, teachers will incorporate mental health themes into their lessons, helping students explore its relevance across different fields.

The week’s activities revolve around four core themes: Resilience, Mindfulness, Positive Communication, and Gratitude, aiming to foster greater mental well-being awareness among students and staff.

Mindful Beginnings: 

Meditation to Awaken Body and Mind

The opening event featured a 10-minute mindfulness meditation led by yoga instructor Angelina. As soothing background narration played, the lights in Castle Hall dimmed, and students and teachers closed their eyes, focusing on their breath to cultivate presence and calm before starting the day.

Resilience:

“Try Again Tuesday”

We often celebrate success but rarely talk about failure. Yet, setbacks are a natural part of life. Tuesday’s "Try Again" theme encouraged students and teachers to share personal stories of failure—whether academic struggles, social challenges, or personal obstacles. By normalizing these experiences, we reinforce that failure is nothing to fear or be ashamed of. Only by embracing setbacks can we build true resilience.

Mindfulness:

“Mindful Moving Wednesday”

Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment without judgment. Research shows it enhances concentration, reduces stress, and benefits both mental and physical well-being.

This week, the school offered multiple ways to experience mindfulness:

Mindful      Walking: Guided pathways on the third-floor lobby allowed students to      focus on each step, grounding themselves in the present.

Tai Chi Morning Session: On Wednesday, the secondary school gathered for a Tai Chi workshop, experiencing the meditative flow of this traditional Chinese practice to cultivate balance and focus.

Positive Communication:

"But Free Thursday"

Words shape thoughts. When someone shares good news, responding with "but" can unintentionally diminish their joy. Thursday’s "No Buts" challenge promoted a more uplifting communication style—replacing qualifiers with wholehearted encouragement, fostering a more positive mindset in ourselves and others.

Gratitude: 

"Grateful Friday"

Gratitude is a powerful way to boost happiness. On Friday morning, every student and teacher received a heart-shaped note to jot down something they were thankful for— No moment of kindness is too small to be thankful for.

While Mental Health Week may end, MIS’s commitment to well-being continues. We hope this week inspires everyone to carry forward these practices, nurturing their own and others’ mental health long after.