Introduction of The Mask Bar: A Therapeutic and Engaging Approach to Self-Care and Mindfulness
At Dolled Up Pamper Party, The Mask Bar, was launched as another creative and therapeutic branch of our business where children (and adults) can learn to perform a professional spa facial while having fun. This experience is enhanced by allowing children to mix their own face masks and enjoy the playful ritual of laying with cucumbers on their eyes. Beyond skincare, The Mask Bar incorporates guided meditation exercises—specifically, breathing techniques—to teach children mindfulness and relaxation. These elements not only promote physical well-being but also provide significant mental health benefits through structured self-care routines.
The Therapeutic Benefits of Self-Care Rituals
Ritualistic self-care, such as performing a spa facial, has been shown to improve mental well-being by reducing stress and enhancing emotional regulation (Groot et al., 2022). The structured, repetitive nature of a facial routine, especially learning the facial massage movements, encourages relaxation and mindfulness, allowing individuals to momentarily disengage from external stressors and focus on themselves (Tew et al., 2021).
Incorporating fun elements, such as mixing personalized face masks, transforms a routine facial into an interactive experience. This process stimulates the senses and can engage children in a soothing, enjoyable activity. Furthermore, research indicates that sensory-based self-care practices—like applying facial treatments —can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing anxiety and fostering a state of calm (Smith et al., 2020).
Engaging Children Through Active Participation
At The Mask Bar, children have the opportunity to engage actively in their self-care by mixing their own face masks. This sensory and creative activity not only keeps children focused but also promotes emotional regulation and mental relaxation (Pelham et al., 2021). The tactile experience of preparing and applying their own facial masks encourages focus and creativity, which are critical for developing emotional and cognitive control.
The ritual of laying with cucumbers on their eyes offers a playful way to transition into a state of relaxation. Cucumbers, known for their cooling and soothing properties, enhance the sensory experience, making the facial treatment both fun and calming. This combination of creativity, sensory stimulation, and relaxation is particularly effective for fostering mindfulness in children, especially when paired with guided meditation.
Self-Care, ADHD, and Mindfulness: A Unique Approach
Traditional mindfulness practices, such as sitting still and quiet meditation, can be challenging for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) due to difficulties with sustained focus and physical restlessness (Schneider et al., 2019). In fact, for some children with ADHD, the expectation to remain still can lead to frustration and exacerbate hyperactivity. The Mask Bar provides an alternative approach by integrating mindfulness into active, engaging tasks like mask mixing and facial routines.
These hands-on activities offer sensory engagement and guided focus, helping children with ADHD achieve a relaxed and attentive state without requiring stillness. Studies show that combining sensory tasks with mindfulness practices can improve focus and decrease hyperactive behaviours in children with ADHD (Zylowska et al., 2008). Additionally, the guided nature of the facial routine—paired with the sensory input from cucumbers—offers a structured yet flexible way to practice mindfulness.
Breathing Exercises: Guided Meditation with Cucumber Relaxation
To further enhance the benefits of self-care, The Mask Bar incorporates guided meditation in the form of breathing exercises, designed to teach children mindfulness while they lay with cucumbers on their eyes (which also evokes lots of giggles). This simple, focused breathing technique helps children practice relaxation and develop body awareness. Research supports that teaching breathing exercises can improve emotional regulation and reduce anxiety in children, especially when paired with tactile experiences (Diamond & Lee, 2019).
Guided Meditation Script to try at home: Breathing with Cucumber Relaxation
Getting Comfortable: After the children have applied their masks and placed cucumbers on their eyes, they are encouraged to lay back comfortably.
Breathing Focus: The instructor will softly guide them to close their eyes (if not already covered by cucumbers) and focus on their breath. They will be instructed to inhale deeply through their nose for a count of four, hold the breath for two seconds, and then exhale slowly through their mouth for a count of six. There are lots of different breathing activities you can find by a simple google search.
Mind-Body Connection: As they breathe, the instructor will gently encourage the children to feel the coolness of the cucumbers on their eyelids and the calmness spreading across their body. They will be reminded to let their shoulders relax, allowing their body to sink into whatever they are resting on.
Counting Breaths: The instructor will lead them in counting each breath: "Breathe in… one, two, three, four. Hold… one, two. Now breathe out… one, two, three, four, five, six." This counting will continue for several cycles, providing structure and focus to prevent mind-wandering.
Positive Visualization: Toward the end of the breathing exercise, children will be asked to imagine that each breath is filling them with a sense of calm, and with each exhale, they are releasing any tension or worries they might have.
This combination of sensory relaxation and mindful breathing creates a child-friendly meditation practice that supports both mental focus and emotional calm. For children with ADHD, in particular, this active form of meditation offers a pathway to mindfulness that aligns with their sensory and cognitive needs.
Fun and Structured Engagement to Combat Boredom
Children, especially those with ADHD, can struggle with boredom and restlessness during passive activities (Pelham et al., 2021). The interactive nature of The Mask Bar, where they mix their own face masks and follow guided breathing exercises, combats this tendency by keeping them engaged in both physical and mental tasks. The playful elements—like the cucumber-on-eyes ritual—create a sense of fun and relaxation, helping to maintain focus and preventing frustration. This structured, yet enjoyable approach helps children stay involved in self-care without feeling restricted or overwhelmed by the expectations of traditional mindfulness practices.
Conclusion
The Mask Bar at Dolled Up Pamper Party offers a holistic approach to self-care and mindfulness, combining fun, interactive activities with proven therapeutic benefits. By allowing children to mix their own face masks and participate in a guided meditation through breathing exercises, we provide a unique, sensory-rich experience that fosters relaxation and mental well-being. This innovative approach is particularly beneficial for children with ADHD, offering an accessible form of mindfulness that addresses their need for active engagement. Through guided, hands-on activities, children can enjoy the physical benefits of a spa facial while learning valuable skills for emotional regulation and self-soothing. And most importantly, it is lots of fun!
References
Diamond, A., & Lee, K. (2019). Hands-on learning and executive function: Cognitive benefits of active learning strategies. Child Development Perspectives, 13(1), 52-57.
Groot, J., Warner, L. M., & Schüz, B. (2022). The role of self-care in mental health: Understanding its impact on well-being. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 45(4), 623-635.
Pelham, W. E., Fabiano, G. A., & Massetti, G. M. (2021). The role of boredom and mind-wandering in children with ADHD. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 26(3), 365-376.
Schneider, H., Counts, C. A., & Tomblin, R. (2019). ADHD and mindfulness: Assessing the effectiveness of alternative approaches for managing symptoms. Journal of Attention Disorders, 23(7), 644-652.
Smith, M. A., Gonzalez, J. S., & Antonelli, L. (2020). The sensory and psychological benefits of tactile self-care routines: A review. Psychology of Well-Being, 10(2), 233-245.
Tew, G. A., Norton, L., & Evans, T. (2021). The benefits of mindful self-care for mental health: A comprehensive review. Mindfulness and Well-Being Research, 8(1), 102-118.
Zylowska, L., Ackerman, D. L., Yang, M. H., et al. (2008). Mindfulness meditation training in adults and adolescents with ADHD: A feasibility study. Journal of Attention Disorders, 11(6), 737-746.
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