From May 20, 2021: STOP@7/11

 STOP @ 7/11

We’ve been working on several mindfulness practices over the past few weeks in order to help us better regulate ourselves in the face of challenges and strong emotions. When faced with anxiety, fear, or anger, our amygdalas often take over, that ancient reptilian part of the brain that floods us with the stress hormone cortisol and creates the fight/flight/freeze response. 

When we can recognize that happening, taking a step back via STOP (Stand or Sit, Tune-in, Observe, Proceed) or a 7/11 (mentally count to 7 on the in-breath, 11 on the out-breath) can give us the space to skillfully respond rather than quickly react. The difference between reacting and responding can make all the difference for teens, teachers, and parents. And it’s always a work in progress, which is why we need to practice. 

Likewise, when we’re enjoying a beautiful day or a fun activity, bringing awareness to the moment and pausing to fully appreciate it can help us to relax and gain some perspective. Coming in the next couple of weeks… FOFBOC and Beditation!

Interim Head of School, Dave Mullen