Saranac High School Counseling News
April 2020
Emotional Well Being Ideas from the Northeastern Family Institute
In this time of extreme stress we wanted to provide a few ways we can self-regulate (calm our nervous systems).
1. Bottom-Up’ Processing/Activities: The most effective and sustainable ways to calm ourselves and minimize stress are through somatic (body based), repetitive, movement orientated activities. These include yoga, martial arts, exercise, sports, singing, dancing, humming, breathing and mindfulness activities, walking, pet care, stretching, nurturing physical contact:
- Frequency and dosing: ideally one longer block of movement/exercise per day (30 minutes or more) and then short, intermittent and regular movement every hour! Even 5 minutes of each hour can help to reduce stress and prevent the buildup of tension. It is essential to prevent the buildup of stress as this makes it harder to moderate it later. “Short moments of action, many times a day”
3. Boundaries and Limits: With more people working at home, and concerns about rising levels of domestic violence, child abuse and substance use, there is a real threat to “work-life balance” at this time. There is a temptation to work longer and harder. For people still going to work (“essential workers”), the balance is profoundly challenging as well. In many ways, those at work sites are shouldering our nation’s infrastructure (e.g. first responders, healthcare, food services, cleaning services, and drivers) and are uniquely at risk. It is essential that we all maintain our balance and set limits where possible to maintain our own health.
4. Limit Exposure to News, Blogs etc. about COVID-19: It is important to keep up on the news, both for your own/family’s protection and for your role at work. Yet, portion control is critical. Simply put, too much exposure to the news can intensify stress, harm sleep and eating cycles and contribute to negative moods. Be informed, but not immersive about all the details around us.
We Are Here For You!
Gift of Time
Virtual Yoga with Michelle Doorey
Students and famlies interested in Yoga can join Michelle Doorey on Zoom every Tuesday and Thursday from 3-4pm. Click on the link below to join the session on the dates and times below.
Mar 26, 2020 03:00 PM
Mar 31, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 2, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 7, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 9, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 14, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 16, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 21, 2020 03:00 PM
Apr 23, 2020 03:00 PM