Method: Rose & Thorn and Bud: A Mindful Way to Reflect
Ask the group to reflect and be mindful of a Rose, Thorn, and Bud they have experienced. Help them describe new ideas and things they are looking forward to learning or experiencing. Also, give them the opportunity to reflect on those things they found challenging in order to be able to offer better support.
Instructions
- Define the terms for the activity
Rose = A highlight, success, small win, or something positive that happened.
Thorn = A challenge you experienced or something you can use more support with.
Bud = New ideas that have blossomed or something you are looking forward to knowing more about or experiencing.
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Brainstorming
Give the group 30 seconds to a few minutes to sit silently to reflect on their rose, bud and thorn. Then give them 5 to 10 minutes to jot down ideas on a piece of paper or print out the graphic organiser provided here.
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Debrief
Share your own rose, bud, and thorn, and then go around the room asking participants to share their rose, bud, or thorn or reflect on the activity itself.
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Reflection
Check in after completing the activity and ask participants to notice their energy level and thoughts before and after the activity.
A possible extension for this activity is to brainstorm strategies for turning thorns into roses or to describe ways thorns might support learning and growing.
Source: https://www.mindfulschools.org/inspiration/mindful-reflection/