Take a few minutes and relax and de-stress in the virtual Zen Den with these activities. We plan on updating this page, so check back for new entries.
Short Yoga Break
This video was developed by a DMACC Honors student, Hanna Batten (Carroll Campus) for her HON 100 Service Project.
Thank you, Hannah, for letting us include it in the Zen Den.
Simple Breathing
Focus your attention on this animation and breathe according to its rhythm: expanding your lungs and breathing deeply as the drawing expands, then releasing the breath and relaxing your chest as the drawing contracts. You may wish to pair the animation with
relaxing music or
quiet nature sounds. If intrusive thoughts or worries distract you, gently guide your attention back to the animation, using the Parking Lot if you need to in order to let the thoughts pass.
From UMSL-University of Missouri- St. Louis Health, Counseling and Disability Services
Homemade Playdough Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup salt
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 cup water
1.5 tablespoons liquid cooking oil (I used olive oil, since that’s all I had, but anything will work!)
Food coloring
6–8 drops of essential oils of your choice (my favorite essential oils
Instructions
In a sauce pan, stir the flour, salt, and cream of tartar together.
Add in the water, cooking oil, and food coloring and mix until smooth.
Turn on the heat to medium-low, and stir until the mixture forms a ball.
Once the mixture has reached playdough-consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for 3-4 minutes.
Knead in the essential oils of your choice.
Store in an air-tight container. (Storing it in the fridge will make it last even longer!)
Online Activities
