Relaxation and peace in the forest and nature - Sanvi Rai

People often find profound peace in forests and nature due to a harmonious blend of sensory experiences and psychological benefits. The calming sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and babbling brooks create a soothing auditory environment that helps to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Visually, the vibrant hues of greenery, the subtle intricacies of flowers, and the expansive skies contribute to a sense of beauty and tranquility that transcends daily life. In nature, individuals can disconnect from the incessant barrage of technology and urban noise, allowing for much-needed mental clarity and a reprieve from the pressures of modern life. The natural rhythms of the environment—such as the rising and setting of the sun, seasonal changes, and animal behaviors—offer comforting structure and a sense of order, reinforcing our connection to the world around us. 

This intrinsic affinity for nature is encapsulated in the biophilia hypothesis, which posits that humans possess an inherent love for the natural world; this connection fosters positive emotions and a feeling of belonging that is vital for well-being. Furthermore, nature encourages mindfulness, inviting individuals to immerse themselves in the present moment by observing the intricate details of their surroundings, such as the texture of bark or the dance of clouds overhead. This mindful engagement can serve to deepen one’s sense of presence and diminish worries about the past or future. The physical benefits of spending time outdoors, typically involving activities like hiking, walking, or cycling, also play a significant role; these activities promote the release of endorphins, which can elevate mood and reduce stress. 

Nature can be a sanctuary for emotional healing, providing a serene backdrop for reflection and contemplation, encouraging gratitude, and fostering inner peace. Additionally, shared experiences in natural settings can enhance social connections through family outings, friendships, or community events, creating lasting memories and deepening bonds.

For many, nature fosters a spiritual connection, inspiring feelings of awe and reverence for life and the environment. This connection can be tied to specific religious beliefs or simply stem from a profound appreciation of the beauty and complexity of the world. 

Finally, witnessing the richness of biodiversity and being immersed in various ecosystems often ignites a sense of wonder that fosters gratitude and contentment. Overall, the amalgamation of these factors contributes to the peace and tranquility individuals often experience in forests and nature, making it a vital aspect of human well-being.

Sanvi Rai

Sunbeam Hostel Bhagwanpur

JDS diary - Sunday School 20th October 2024

Why is the world full of colour?

The world is full of colours because light reflects off objects at different wavelengths, and our eyes perceive those wavelengths as different colours.

Life in Kolkata

Life in Kolkata is a blend of rich cultural heritage, intellectual vibrancy, and tradition. Known as the "Cultural Capital" of India, it thrives on art, literature, and festivals like Durga Puja. The city is also an intellectual hub with prestigious universities, political activism, and a strong sense of community, offering a unique mix of modernity and tradition.

Anjali Bishnoi
Grade 9 Rose
Jhamkudevi Sen Sec School

What does self-reflection mean to you?

For me, self-reflection is the way to express yourself. It helps you to understand yourself more and help others to create a perspective about your view and nature. It also helps you to build self-confidence and encourages a level of self-awareness and consciousness about your practice. It also enables you to identify the areas of improvement and also areas where you are strong
 Nancy
 Grade 9 Lotus
 Jhamkudevi Sen Sec School

Kolkata Trams

The Kolkata tram system is an LRT that servers the Kolkata, Kolkata tram system being started in 1873, The Kolkata tram is the oldest operating tram network in the world. The Kolkata tram is the only tram system operating in India. Some old age and young people of Kolkata love to travel by tram.

Harshpreet 

Jhamkudevi Sen Sec School

Colors In Nature - Simrat Kaur

Colours in nature often serve specific functions that have evolved. For example, the vibrant colours of flowers attract pollinators such as bees, birds, and butterflies, ensuring the reproductive success of plant species. Similarly, some trees change colour in autumn as part of a process that helps them conserve energy for the winter months. Trees and plants may use colour to signal various states or conditions. For example, the changing colours of leaves can indicate nutrient shifts within the tree or environmental changes. 

Wohlleben discusses how trees "communicate" with each other through their root systems and even via their outward appearance, like changing leaf colour in response to stress. Colours can also serve as a means of protection. For example, certain trees and plants have evolved colours that help them blend into their environment, avoiding herbivores. Conversely, bright colours in some plants may warn potential predators that they are toxic or inedible. 

The book's broader message is that colours are not merely aesthetic but have evolved to fulfil ecological functions that maintain the balance and harmony of nature. The natural world's vibrancy reflects life's complexity and the interdependence of all living things.

Simrat Kaur
Class 9th
Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur

Little Arfa at The Railway Museum

Throughout my childhood, my parents used to take me to different exquisite places every Sunday. I have visited several museums in my life, but the most memorable one was The Railway Museum. I remember going to the railway museum twice or thrice in my life. It was that time before puberty when the world seemed bright and merry.

My first memory was riding the Jolly train with my parents, wearing my favorite pink sunglasses while enjoying a Lottie choco pie. I was obsessed with Lottie choco pie then, and it was a great coincidence that we both came into being in 2010. After the ride, we went to see the control station of a train. I was fascinated by the amount of levers and buttons there. 

Being a train driver must have been so cool! Then, we went to see the exhibits that were inside. On the way there, we came across a snake charmer with his dancing cobra. When the charmer played his pungi the snake slithered out of its jute bag and began dancing in a back-and-forth motion like it would attack us at any moment. I was so scared that we quickly moved on, so we couldn’t witness the whole performance. When we reached the exhibits, I saw all the parts of the trains and the different types of trains that ran in India. There were so many that I could easily say there were over a hundred. There were also miniature models of some trains. I looked at those tiny dummy trains wondering what the miniature people must be thinking seeing a giant with big, curious eyes spectating them in awe. 

Finally, it was time to leave. I remember that while leaving, I bought a big Shaka lakaboom-boom pencil which, I think, has a special place. It resides in every Indian’s heart

and has been a part of many people’s childhood.

Arfa Khan
Grade 9
Ahlcon Public School

Reflections Sunday The 20th October

Sunday School No. 159

- From My Name Is Cinnamon- 1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 2. What were the key points in the chapter? 3. Life In Kolkata 4. When have you ever "hidden" something from your elders? What are the things you don't tell them and why? 5. Importance of reflection and clear thoughts. 6. Write about Kolkata trams. 7. Why does the sun rise earlier in Kolkata? 8. What museums have you visited? 9. What does self-reflection mean to you? - From The Hidden Life Of Trees – 1. Why is the world full of color? 2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 3. How does every material absorb light? 4. Why do you feel relaxed and peaceful in forests and nature? 5. Mechanism of a "sunblock" 6. What would happen if the leaves of trees were black? "The forest is transfused with a subdued green light that just happens to have a relaxing effect on the human psyche." These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!

You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in

Key Highlights of the Session:

    

         Book Reading Activity:

• The session began with the reading of selected books, aimed at developing students' reading habits, and comprehension skills, and fostering a love for literature. Students actively participated in the discussion around the stories, highlighting important life lessons and moral values.

• This activity helped students improve their critical thinking and encouraged them to draw connections between the stories and their personal experiences.

• Discussion on Note-Taking vs. Reflection:

• A significant part of the session was dedicated to explaining the difference between note-taking and reflection:

• Note-taking was described as the process of jotting down important information during a lesson or reading, capturing facts and key points.

• Reflection was presented as a deeper process where students look back at what they have learned, think critically, and form personal insights. Reflection helps in solidifying knowledge and fostering self-awareness.

• Students and teachers were encouraged to balance both practices, as note-taking ensures accuracy, while reflection promotes meaningful learning.

• Retreat Plan and Registration:

• The session also covered important details regarding the upcoming Retreat Plan. The retreat is designed to promote personal growth, collaboration, and self-reflection for students and staff alike.

• The reasons for joining the retreat were discussed, emphasizing the benefits of stepping outside the regular school routine to engage in fun, educational activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and creative problem-solving.

• The last date for retreat registration was announced as 30th October, and students were reminded to complete the registration process before the deadline.

Conclusion:
The Sunday School Reading Session was a successful blend of reading, critical discussion, and important announcements. By engaging in book reading and understanding the importance of both note-taking and reflection, students are better equipped to process and retain information in a meaningful way. The session also served as an excellent platform to brief parents and students on the upcoming retreat and its potential benefits.
 
Next Steps:

• Students were reminded to complete the retreat registration by 30th October.

• Students are encouraged to continue practicing both note-taking and reflective learning in their day-to-day studies.

Reflections Sunday The 13th October 2024

Sunday School No. 158

-Guru Nanak Docuseries-

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. What were the key points in the episode? 

3. Wisdom, Right Knowledge, and Intellect- How can you connect with these?

4. What could be the true meaning of worship and religion? 

5. Importance of reflection and clear thought 

6. According to you what is the real meaning of the "essence"? 

7. What is the real purpose of a "pilgrim"? 

8. Would you learn the Gurumukhi script to better understand Guru Nanak's teachings? 

9. What importance does Guru Nanak's "message of oneness" hold? 

10. Have the boundaries divided us or made us even stronger? 

11. How did Dakha get its name?

Rishona added: What's evident in the series is, first, the feeling of oneness and the true belief in oneness. Today, it isn't the physical boundaries that divide us but the emotional boundaries we make and the beliefs that we make that may divide us. This sense of oneness is essential in today’s world. Second, the fact that Guru Nanak goes beyond religion. The true meaning and accurate understanding of it. That belief that religion is beyond prayers and names is lovely. Reflect on this.

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees –

1. Why is the forest known as the epitome of healthy air? 

2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 

3. What happens when a thicker coat is formed on leaves? 

4. How does a tree breathe? 

5. How do trees survive? 

6. What would happen if tree roots don't breathe? 

7. Role of algae activity in the ocean 8. Do trees sleep and how?

Thanks to Rishona Chopra for the valuable inupts.

These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in

My Good School Sunday 13-10-2024

Key Takeaways

• Explored Episode 10 of Guru Nanak documentary, covering his travels from Bihar to Bangladesh and Assam
• Discussed key themes: oneness, women's empowerment, breaking religious boundaries, self-reflection
• Read chapter on "Healthy Forest Air" from "The Hidden Life of Trees", examining trees' role in air purification and oxygen production
• Promoted upcoming retreat at My Good School from Nov 13-16, featuring forest immersion and book discussions

Topics

Guru Nanak Documentary Discussion

• Amardeep Singh provided context on Episode 10, covering Guru Nanak's journey from Bihar to Bangladesh and Assam
• Highlighted Guru Nanak's teachings on:
• Oneness and universal brotherhood, transcending religious boundaries
• Women's empowerment, advocating for gender equality 500 years ago
• Self-reflection and wisdom as tools for spiritual growth
• Discussed lasting impact of Guru Nanak's philosophy, with followers still present in Bangladesh today
• Explored metaphorical interpretations of stories, e.g. Bhai Mardana's "transformation" representing loss of rational thinking

The Hidden Life of Trees - Forest Air Chapter

• Trees act as natural air filters, trapping 20,000 tons of particles per square mile annually
• Forests produce 29 tons of oxygen per square mile daily during summer
• Trees need rest and are negatively impacted by constant artificial light
• Discussed importance of allowing indoor plants to rest at night and have access to natural light
• Explored how trees "breathe" through leaf stomata and roots

My Good School Retreat

• Upcoming retreat from Nov 13-16 at Khan Farm, Dehradun
• Features forest immersion, book discussions on "The Inner Life of Animals" and "The Hidden Life of Trees"
• Cost: 15,000 rupees per person, all-inclusive for 4 days/3 nights
• Fireside chat with Krista from Canada on Children's Day (Nov 14)
• Limited to 50 delegates; open to principals, teachers, and students

Next Steps

• Participants to reflect on self-reflection techniques and importance of oneness
• Research phytoncides and their effects on human health
• Consider registering for the My Wood School retreat (Nov 13-16)
• Read posts on Joy of Learning Diaries, including Rishona's reflection on oneness
• Manisha to compile reflections from participants for blog post

Action Items

• Write & submit reflection on women's empowerment message from Guru Nanak documentary to Manisha for blog post
• Write reflection on self-reflection concept from Guru Nanak documentary for Joy of Learning blog
• Research & add info to reflection post on how Dhaka got its name (beyond what was mentioned in documentary).
• Compile reflection post for Joy of Learning blog - include Rishona's quote on oneness, add prompts from Sandeep Dutt's telegram msg.

Meet and Greet with Anant Narayan Mahadevan

‘Once Upon A Prime Time’, book reading with Ananth Narayan Mahadevan.

Students from the Doon International School attended the event hosted at The English Book Depot. They interacted with the author and crew of the film Pastt Tense, which is being shot in Uttarakhand by National Award-winning filmmaker and actor Ananth Narayan Mahadevan. 

The Meet and Greet was hosted by Garhwal Post and The English Book Depot. Satish Sharma, the Editor of Garhwal Post, the Editorial Board, special invitees, and guests thronged the Book Cafe at 7:00 p.m. on October 10, 2024; the event lasted over an hour and a half. Book reading was followed with a question and answer session with the author. Complete story will be published in The Garhwal Post on the 12th of October 2024*.

Anant Mahadevan a famous actor, director, writer in both the Marathi and Hindi film industry. He was born on 28th August in the year 1950 in Thrissur, United State Of Travancore And Cochin, India. He is also known as Anant Narayan Mahadevan. He started his film career in the year 1984. At present (2024) he is 74 years old. Having been an integral part of the Indian television serials and Hindi movies since the 1980s, he is also involved in the professional English and Hindi theatre. His favorite actors are Guru Dutt and Stephen Lang. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Just Marathi.

At the event Anath read the story of the making of Tipu Sultan the movie. The 18th century warrior king lived and died by the sword. But for the crew and cast who were working to bring him to life in a TV serial, it ended in a different, more horrifying ordeal: fire. Last fortnight, a devastating blaze swept through Premier Studios in Mysore, where actor-director Sanjay Khan was shooting a tele-serial based on Bhagwan Gidwani's historical novel The Sword of Tipu Sultan. The toll: 42 dead and at least 25. including Khan, seriously injured.

Read more about the book Once Upon A Prime Time by Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, published by Embassy Book Distributors in the Brewing Knowledge blog from The English Book Depot: https://www.brewingknowledge.com/2024/10/books-of-week-5th-october-saturday-2024.html

* Garhwal Post 

Film making is no longer art but a commercial activity in India: Ananth Mahadevan

https://garhwalpost.in/film-making-is-no-longer-art-but-a-commercial-activity-in-india-ananth-mahadevan/

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Thank you, in six months we made it to 1400 subscribers #JoyOfLearning

- Sandeep Dutt

Read on Substack

At Good Schools Alliance, we are working to revolutionise education, driven by our passion for delivering top-notch learning opportunities to all. Our journey started with a vision to make education available to all, no matter where they come from. Our main goal is to cultivate an environment of trust and continual growth.

Good Schools India (GSI) Journal is our reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your contributions help empower individuals with personal and social development. You will feel a sense of deep satisfaction as you help young people prepare to face the world with #JoyOfLearning.

Read with us at The My Good School Retreat

My Good School Retreat 2024 

Find out more:

https://schooleducation.com/my-good-school-retreat 

Reflections Sunday the 6th October 2024

 - From My Guide Inside-

1. We can make healthy decisions and make and keep healthy friendships. Create and submit a reflection!
2. What were the words discussed today, and how do they reverberate with you?
3. The Best Ship is Friendship- Comment.
4. In the replay of the Signal Story, what did Rohan remember that made everything different?
5. What steps have you made to establish positive relationships with your friends, family, and/or relatives?
6. Write a story of your own by using the Power Words.
belonging—be a part of
healthy—good
insecure—unsure
realize—see, understand
signal—sign

Note: MGI Online is a school well-being curriculum that aligns with our work at My Good School and helps us focus on life skills.

- From My Name Is Cinnamon-
1. What was your takeaway from today's session?
2. Have you ever been to Kolkata? Share your experience.
3. Does communication change depending on how something is said? How?
4. Why do people snore?
5. What could be the side effects after you raid the kitchen late at night?
6. Post a photo of the regional art form and discuss it.

These are some suggestions you can choose from. We are looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in.

My Good School 06-10-2024 

VIEW RECORDING - 204 mins (No highlights)

Highlight

To discuss social-emotional learning concepts and read a chapter from "My Name is Cinnamon", followed by updates on the upcoming My Good School retreat.

Key Takeaways

• Christa Campsall presented on managing emotions and building healthy friendships using Hawaiian concepts like "huli the bowl" and riding emotional waves
• The group read Chapter 5 of "My Name is Cinnamon" and discussed themes of family dynamics and cultural differences.
• Plans were shared for the upcoming My Good School retreat, which will focus on service, skills, sports, and study from November 13 to 16.

Topics

Social-Emotional Learning Presentation

• Christa Campsall presented on managing emotions and building healthy friendships
• Key concepts:
  • "Hula the bowl" - emptying unhelpful thoughts
  • Riding emotional waves - letting negative thoughts pass
  • Pausing when angry to let mind clear before acting
• Emphasized realizing innate wisdom/intuition vs. developing new skills
• Used the story of two boys with a pencil to illustrate different emotional responses

"My Name is Cinnamon" Chapter 5 Discussion

• Read Chapter 5 about Cinnamon's family trip to Kolkata
• Discussed:
  • Cultural differences between Maharashtra and West Bengal (food, language)
  • Family dynamics and storytelling
  • Cinnamon sneaking sweets at night and getting caught
• Highlighted positive family atmosphere of open communication

My Good School Retreat Planning

• Dates: November 13-16
• Location: Khan Farm, Dehradun
• Key activities:
  • Service project with Artha Food Academy
  • Skill-building sessions
  • Forest walk and reading reflections
  • Dehradun city tour and Doon School visit
• Emphasized unique learning experience beyond a typical school picnic

Next Steps

• Students to reflect on learnings from today's session and write about them
• Manisha to reach out to teachers/schools to provide more details on the retreat
• Participants are encouraged to register for the retreat
• Continue weekly Sunday sessions and prepare for the upcoming Dussehra holiday

Action Items

• Call teachers from each school about retreat. Brief on differences from a picnic, full school curriculum in 4 days. Discuss web pages, answer questions, and explain travel logistics. - WATCH (30 secs)
• Post reflections and questions from today's meeting - WATCH (20 secs)

The Impact Study by Kunal Rajpurohit

Three Impactful Years and three cheers to our Fellow Analyst Kunal and the intern's team #JoyOfLearning #MyGoodSchool #GoodSchoolsAlliance #HappyTeachers

Birthday Greetings from JDS School

Lavneet Kaur Grade 9

Yanishka Grade 9

Komal, Class - 9th , Section - Pansy

Happy Birthday Good Schools Alliance. We pray for your happy and long life and a bright future. May you flourish everywhere on this beautiful planet EARTH.

- Suman Jakhar, Jhamku Devi Senior Secondary School

Birthday Message from GSA Principal

Dear My Good School, 

I wish you a very Happy Birthday. I hope you have an amazing year and the happiest of birthdays. The time spent with you is akin to discovering oneself and connecting it to one's potential. All it takes to make any of us smile is your presence. We appreciate you being here and motivating us.

On this special day, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the participation of our beloved GSA member schools. School leaders, parents, and my dear students. Last but not least our beloved Sandeep sir, for his motivation and passion towards bringing all of us together and igniting the spark of light towards a common goal #Joy of Learning. 

Your presence contributed immensely to our success story, and we truly appreciate your support. We truly appreciate your thoughts and recommendations as we think about and anticipate improving our upcoming experiences.

On behalf of GSA, I would like to thank each one of you, and invite you to the GSA retreat from 13th to 16thNovember. It's going to be a memorable experience for all of us. Our vision is to create #JoyofLearning focusing on reading, reflection, and building relationships.

Once again, a very Happy Birthday. Continue to rise and shine.

Warmly

Manisha Khanna

GSA Principal

Thank you, Good School Alliance!

Happy Birthday 

Our dear GSA

On behalf of the entire Sunbeam School and Hostel, Lahartara, we wish Good School Alliance a very Happy Birthday!

Thank you for making our Sundays both interesting and full of values, with a touch of fun. To be honest, we thoroughly enjoy our Sundays thanks to your efforts.

You have truly made a great impact on our lives, and we are grateful to have you.

Thank you, Good School Alliance!

Warm regards,

Sunbeam School and Hostel

Lahartara