CHI SCHOOL BLOG
Meditation Mondays 2020
Start 2020 off mindful! Join my 12-week meditation course (January 13th – April 13th) at the beautiful WerkLab in Vancouver’s Strathcona neighborhood. The Practice This 12-week guided meditation practice will give you the tools to create radical transformation in your mental clarity, emotional balance, and wellbeing. This class will allow you to experience the benefits…
Join Michele for Monday Meditation in 2019!
Start your Autumn off mindful! Join my 3-month meditation course (September 9th- December 9th) at the beautiful WerkLab in Vancouver’s Strathcona neighborhood. The Practice This 3-month guided meditation practice will give you the tools to create radical transformation through subtle shifts in your daily life. The class itself provides a beautiful place in which you…
Preparing for “Back to School” at Any Age
Tomorrow is back to school for public school kids in the lower mainland. Taking your toddler to their first taste of school, and the tearful goodbye associated with that … is one thing. Then there are the tweens, who are anxious as social influences begin. The anxiety is real for kids and parents. Time to…
Back to School on Global News
Child and family therapist Michele Kambolis sits down with Global News to discuss helping your kids deal with anxiety as they transition back to the classroom watch the segment
The Magic Land of Chi
Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is a mind-body technique that tames stress and helps kids become more aware of the sensations that go hand-in-hand with tension. It involves slowly tensing and then relaxing each muscle group and with regular practice PMR helps keep stress in check. Science tells us PMR activates the parasympathetic nervous system (triggering…
Pizza breathing for a calm mind
Monkey Mind is a state of having your thoughts racing – it’s brought on by anxiety or stress. It’s like having a wild monkey in your mind that’s jumping around and swinging from tree to tree. Monkey Mind can be distracting and make us irritable or anxious. This breathing exercise is a great solution for…
Getting your kids to go green
Chi School & Alyssa Bauman I get it. We have picky eaters. If anyone knows this, I do. My first daughter ate nothing for the first five years of her life. You think that is an exaggeration? It is not. She had to drink special vitamin drinks to get her nutrients. Think Ensure, but for kids, so anything green…
Vegan Old Fashioned Cake Donut Mini-Muffins
With a long weekend coming up, it’s nice to have a few treats around the house, or something extra special to take along on a picnic! You’re going to love these vegan gluten-free old fashioned cake doughnut mini muffins. They’re perfectly spiced old fashioned cake doughnuts—in muffin form! Ingredients 1 1/2 cups gluten free flour blend (I use…
Natural home remedies for you and your family
For serious illness, there’s no question that the doctor is in order, but there are so many wonderful home remedies to everyday discomfort for which we already have the ingredients right in our kitchens! Our Founder, Michele Kambolis, and Jody Vance of Roundhouse radio talk about these home remedies, simple solutions to our every day…
Soothing Lavender Chamomile Tea
Ancient cultures prized lavender for its intoxicating scent and ability to calm the digestive system, bring restful sleep, and relieve depression. 2 tsp fresh or 2/3 tsp dried organic lavender 1 tsp dried chamomile ¼ cup fresh or dried mint of your choice 3 cups hot water Combine mint and lavender in a tea pot…
Feather Thought Buster
Feathers are used in many cultures to symbolize wisdom, lightness and movement. For young children, it’s good to use visual aids, like feathers, to help the practice of understanding and letting go of negative emotions or energy. Here we use the feather to guide our negative thoughts away and guide positive thoughts back in. Think…
World Sleep Day
Child and family therapist, Michele Kambolis, and Roundhouse Radio Host Jody Vance discuss World Sleep Day, and why 1 out of 6 Canadians are sleep deprived; the impact; and tips for reclaiming your sleep life. listen here
Caring for your mental health while struggling with infertility
It’s important for those struggling with infertility to pay attention to and care for their mental health. Michele and Jody talk on Roundhouse Radio about some things people can do to improve their mental well-being during this stressful time. listen here
Banana Bread
This vegan banana bread is delicious, wholesome, naturally sweetened, and takes 15 minutes to get into the oven. A great way to use up some overripe bananas, great for entertaining or just an afternoon snack! Top with nuts for extra protein, too. Ingredients: For the wet ingredients: 1 1/3 cups mashed ripe banana (about 3…
How parents can lead the way towards empathy, gratitude and kindness
Michele and Jody talk on Roundhouse Radio about how holding babies and other acts of kindness can deepen the roots of empathy in our children. listen here
The Gratitude Journal
Positive psychology researchers have become experts in the power of giving thanks. They’ve zeroed in on the social, physical and mental health benefits that come from the practice of gratitude and results are nothing less than remarkable. The Grandfather of Positive Psychology, Dr. Seligman, had individuals write down three things each day that went well…
Easy Vegan Frosted Cake
Has the idea of vegan baking always intimidated you, and you don’t know where to start? Here’s a recipe for a frosted vegan cake, made from mostly ingredients you already have at home! The perfect birthday cake, this cake can be covered in coconut or sprinkles, or served with (vegan) ice cream or fruit! In…
Tips for a Stress Free Wedding
Michele Kambolis on Middays with Jody Vance on Roundhouse Radio 98.3 on February 22nd, 2018 Michele and Jody discuss ways to ease the stress of your upcoming nuptials, and share their own VERY different wedding experiences. listen here
Ways to avoid overscheduling your children
Michele Kambolis on Middays with Jody Vance on Roundhouse Radio 98.3 on February 22nd, 2018 Michele and Jody talk about over-scheduling, how it’s affecting our children, and ways to avoid burnout for the whole family. listen here
In Your Hands
We all have a deep, deep desire for a sense of control – without it we feel vulnerable. Just think, from an evolutionary prospective, our survival has relied on the ability to retain control – each of us is subconsciously wired to seek it at all cost. Learning to let go of the need to…
Talking to Your Kids About Violence
Helping kids make sense of a sometimes senseless world. Connect with us here for ways to help kids work through their fear in the aftermath of the tragic Parkland shooting. listen here
Gender Identity in Teens
A new study out of the United States shows that more and more teens are beginning to identify as gender nonconforming. Meaning, they are choosing to stay away from the traditional ‘boy-girl ‘ gender identity. Why the increasing numbers? What’s the role of the society in this trend? How does a parent provide all the necessary support for a kid who…
ENERGY SHAKE
There’s an age-old practice that is well researched, but widely overlooked when it comes to mind-body health. The list of benefits to Qi Gong is long: it loosens muscles and builds power, strengthens organs and nerves, improves vascular function, eases stress and balances emotions. It’s based on the premise that stagnant energy brings on all…
Gluten Free Waffles
Gluten free baking can be a lot more intimidating than regular baking, but these waffles are super easy, and don’t require a specialty flour mix! Nice and light, they’re great with all toppings and won’t leave you feeling sleepy well before lunch time! Try them out with fresh fruit or fruit compote on top! Ingredients…
5 New Parenting Trends for 2018
Child and family therapist and founder of Chi School, Michele Kambolis, joins Jody Vance on Roundhouse Radio to discuss five new parenting trends for 2018 that would surprise you. listen here
Easy Creamy avocado pasta
Creamy, thick, and rich with lots of garlic flavour and a hint of lemon, this is a dish that adults and children will both love. The avocado works really well to create a creamy and thick sauce, perfect for rainy winter days! Add pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes or even chilli peppers for an added…
Teach your children to care for themselves, and they will begin to care for their world
Michele and Jody talk about how to inspire your child towards the magical life skill of ‘tidying up’, no matter what age and stage. listen here
Crunchy Vegan Granola
We’ve experimented with all kinds of vegan breakfast solutions for kids and find this one to be the perfect breakfast or snack! It’s especially delicious paired up with non-dairy yoghurt, fresh fruit or fruit compote. Ingredients 2 1/2 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup shredded coconut 1 1/2 cups crisp brown rice cereal 1/4 cup brown rice syrup 2 tbsp chia seeds 1/3 cup coconut sugar or brown…
Make Homework Manageable and Mindful
Michele Kambolis joins Jody Vance on Roundhouse Radio to talk about turning homework from an onerous task into a time of connection, problem solving, even joy. listen here
5-4-3-2-1 Notice!
Mindfulness can best be described as a state of active, open attention on the present. It is now being used increasingly as an integral part of social-emotional learning in classrooms across North America to help children become more self-aware, focused and observant of their internal and external landscape. This exercise engages children with their current…
Help your child manage their emotions at any age
It’s sometimes a challenge to realize when to adjust your support strategies for your growing child’s growing emotions! Michele Kambolis joins Jody Vance on Roundhouse Radio to talk about how to evolve your emotional support strategies as your child grows. listen here
Granola Cookies
Look no further for a quick, easy cookie that have as much nutritional benefit as they do flavour! These super healthy vegan cookies are the perfect addition for weekday snacks, in children’s lunches or at home after school! They’re packed with complex carbohydrates (the slow burning brain fuel) and low in sugar, making them just…
Clear Fluid Boundary Thought Buster
Often we can be deeply affected by and sensitive to the feelings of other people. We can really feel it when other people may be angry, sad, or scared. Our brains are wired to do this; in fact, we have mirror neurons in our brains to help us feel what others are feeling. That is…
Raised on Kale: Healthy Eaters 101
Feeding kids can be a challenge. OMG do I know. I am not sure how, but my first daughter survived strictly on air for the first five years of her life. She ate nothing. It was one of the most stressful times of my life. I tried everything. I cooked everything. My heart was fully…
Make way for a healthy, happy holiday!
Join Michele and Jody as they talk about how to bring your focus back to your core intentions for the holiday season. listen here
Sleep consistency over the holidays
With busy holiday schedules, interrupted routines, and amped up anticipation levels, kids and parents can suffer from seriously disrupted sleep routines. We checked in with our sleep consultant, Alanna McGinn from goodnightsleepsite.com, to find out about the biggest reasons for sleep disruption, and what parents can do to guarantee a good night’s sleep. Q…
Bubble Thought Buster
Thought busters are made even more powerful when they’re combined with mindful breathing and play. Blowing bubbles is a fun, joy-filled way for children to relax, let go of their worries and focus on their breathing. SUPPLIES: BUBBLE SOLUTION AND BUBBLE WAND Take a moment to do a scan of your body. Close your eyes…
Vegan Holiday Brownies
Finding holiday treats we can feel good about isn’t easy. Especially when it comes to nourishing our kids! Luckily we discovered a vegan holiday brownie that’s not only delicious, it’s customizable for all kinds of diets. Change up the whole wheat flour for spelt, add or leave out walnuts, and add some fresh cranberries…
Understanding your child’s boundaries around hugging
How do you handle family expectations of hugging when your kid is clearly doesn’t want to? Michele and Jody discuss the importance of teaching your children about respecting personal boundaries. listen here
Gather Your Community to Make More Merry This Holiday Season
Ask any five-year-old and they’ll tell you the true meaning of the holidays: it’s all about giving. And as it turns out, those acts of holiday kindness aren’t just good for the receiver, there’s compelling evidence that it hard wires our brain system for joy, especially when you give as a community. Numerous studies have…
Top Ten Tips for Healthy Eating
Certified Holistic nutritionist and health consultant, Alyssa Bauman of Nourished is on a Health Crusade. Eating well is the most important thing you can do for yourself—it fuels your life, your passions and literally becomes who you are. The thing is, it’s not as difficult as it seems, that’s where Alyssa comes in and guides you…
Separation anxiety – and what to do about it
Has your child having difficulty making it out the door and into school in the mornings? Michele and Jody cover the recent spike in separation anxiety among school aged kids. listen here
Temper tantrums and discouraging sexism in young boys
Michele and Jody talk about ways to manage a temper tantrum, and how to raise a son that doesn’t engage in sexism and negative gender stereotypes. listen here
Breaking the silence on mental illness
Michele and Jody are breaking the silence on mental illness. Listen here as they discuss how critical it is that we speak up to de-stigmatize! listen here
WE day, and messages of hope and positivity
Jody and Michele talk about WE Day, and why now more than ever our youth are in need of messages embracing hope and positivity! listen here
Mind-body health and battling junk food advertising
Join Michele and Jody as they address the implications of junk-food advertising targeting our kids, and the small day-to-day changes you can make to bolster your family’s mind-body health. listen here
Remembering the power of gratitude on Thanksgiving!
Michele and Jody provide some insight into Thanksgiving dinner conversations, and why this is the perfect opportunity to teach your little ones the power of gratitude. listen here
Mindfulness Jar
A Glitter Mindfulness Jar is one of our favourite Chi School activities! It’s a great way for children to keep coming back to their mindfulness practise – again and again.
Sponge Squeezer
Curated by our team, the Chi Tools are resources for you and your community to develop and practice exercises to help you free yourself from limitations and discover the root of well being, everyday.
Tech culture, social media, and how to empower youth
Michele and Jody talk about how to manage your child’s exposure to today’s pervasive social media presence, with helpful tools to empower our youth in the face of a tech saturated culture! listen here
The Parenting Show
Join us here for all the latest Chi School media! Here you’ll find articles, interviews and the latest news releases on mindfulness, parenting, and mind-body health.
Tamara Cotton
Great personal stories inspire. Chi School stories focus on people of action – those who have the courage to start things, change lives, move the world forward, and lead with their hearts.
Conquer Monkey Mind with Square Breathing
Conquer Monkey Mind with Square Breathing “Monkey Mind” is a state of having your thoughts racing – it’s brought on by anxiety or stress. It’s like having a wild monkey in your mind that’s jumping around and swinging from tree to tree. Monkey Mind can be distracting and make us irritable or anxious. This breathing exercise…
Tackling Back-To-School Anxiety by Teaming up with Teachers
Children spend a whopping 1,000 hours or more at school each year, so building a mutually supportive relationship with our child’s teacher is well worth the time and effort. Teachers can become mightily invested in helping children overcome their struggles with back-to-school anxiety – especially when parents are involved and willing to work as a…
What Do You Do With An Idea?
We’re always on the search for products that support a mindful, healthy life. Chi School endorsed products are a curated list of our best finds – all designed to support your mindfulness practise.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the gateway to reaching your highest potential. Chi School tools will guide you towards the approaches that fit your life best – supporting you to take the small daily steps that lead to awe-inspiring changes.
Jacqueline Wener
Great personal stories inspire. Chi School stories focus on people of action – those who have the courage to start things, change lives, move the world forward, and lead with their hearts.
Easing Into A Good Night’s Sleep for a Lifetime of Good Health
Regular sleep habits can be a difficult to maintain—just when a child seems to be falling asleep beautifully, suddenly bedtime can become a waiting game. Lack of sleep can make it difficult for adults to cope, but what is the impact of sleep deprivation on children’s mind-body health? We decided to check in with Pediatric…
Five Ways to Help Your Child Unwind and Recharge this Summer Break
With school doors closed for summer, parents are left wondering just how to make the most of this precious time. While some pack in sports camps and even summer tutoring, others question whether there should be any plan at all. You’ll easily find experts on both sides of the debate. There simply are no hard…