Japa Mala Creation: Strengthening Boundaries Through Mindful Communication
In this workshop, Andrea Bertucci, Marcela Kalas and Erica Sandoval will guide caretakers through the mindful practice of creating their own japa mala—a string of beads traditionally used in yoga and meditation to support mantra chanting and reflection. Each bead represents a repetition of a word or phrase, helping to quiet the mind, cultivate presence, and strengthen inner clarity. Through this meditative process, participants will practice self-awareness by identifying personal needs, and self-management by using repetition and breath to regulate emotions and stress. The chanting element becomes a form of intentional self-communication—affirming boundaries, reinforcing self-worth, and creating space for healthier relationship skills rooted in compassion and respect. By the end of the session, caretakers will leave with both a personalized mala and a grounding SEL tool to remind them to pause, breathe, and honor their needs as they navigate caregiving and connections with others.
For Caretakers and Parents:
This session offers a restorative space for those who spend so much of their energy supporting others. By engaging in a creative, meditative practice, caretakers and parents can reconnect with their own inner voice—strengthening the boundaries and communication skills that sustain healthy family relationships and prevent burnout.
- In what ways do you find yourself supporting or caring for others in your life?
- What does setting healthy boundaries mean to you right now?
