Meditation is a mindfulness practice that brings awareness to the present moment. There are a variety of meditation techniques ranging from short and simple to more lengthy and complex. Benefits for students who practice meditation include an increase in empathy and self control and a reduction in stress, hyperactivity, anxiety, and depression.
Deep Breathing is a stress reduction technique that can be used in the present moment to promote relaxation. Physiologically, deep breathing slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure. Deep breathing has been shown to decrease anxiety, increase focus and attention and improve pro-social behavior. With practice, deep breathing becomes a skill students can use to more effectively cope with familiar and new stressors.
Yoga is a series of postures and breathing exercises practiced to promote physical and emotional well-being as well as improve the mind/body connection.
Aromatherapy is the inhalation of fragrant essential oils for therapeutic purposes to enhance a feeling of well-being.
Identify specific stress reductions techniques for the student to use based on need and preference.
Identify specific stress reductions techniques for the student to use based on need and preference.
Collaborate with campus technology specialist if the stress reduction techniques involve websites, apps or other technology tools.
Collaborate with campus technology specialist if the stress reduction techniques involve websites, apps or other technology tools.
Teach expectations about how to use the stress reduction techniques. Describe the technique in detail and the rationale or importance of using it. Include
Teach expectations about how to use the stress reduction techniques. Describe the technique in detail and the rationale or importance of using it. Include directions about appropriate times and places to use the technique. Repeat or revisit this step as necessary.
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Model the technique for the student. Show them how to use it appropriately based on the situation and environment.
Model the technique for the student. Show them how to use it appropriately based on the situation and environment.
Practice using the technique. Authentic opportunities for the student to practice in the moment are most effective.
Practice using the technique. Authentic opportunities for the student to practice in the moment are most effective.
Monitor the student while they are using the stress reduction techniques and record their progress including how effectively they use the techniques.
Monitor the student while they are using the stress reduction techniques and record their progress including how effectively they use the techniques.
Provide feedback to the student. Feedback should be specific and include positive praise for correct use and corrective feedback for inappropriate use. Continue to
Provide feedback to the student. Feedback should be specific and include positive praise for correct use and corrective feedback for inappropriate use. Continue to monitor and provide feedback as long as the student is using the stress reduction techniques.
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Share progress and effectiveness with the student, the educational team, and the family.
Share progress and effectiveness with the student, the educational team, and the family.