Facilitation training Classified Staff on

"Releasing stress in a healthy way"

Title of training:  We all need Healing: Importance in Replenishing Self

When: January 26^th, 2010

Abstract

Mental and Spiritual Wellness:  Wellness is the key word today as people strive to maintain a healthy balance between the body and the mind which results in a complete feeling of well being. It is a state of optimal functionality and enhanced potential that leads to not only an absence of illness but also an improved quality of life resulting from better physical, mental, and emotional health. Some of the keys areas that this training will focus on are the following:

Focus on what you are grateful for: Life is filled with experiences and events that bring about an emotional response. Everyday we have a choice as to what we will focus on which creates how we feel. Turn your mind to what you are grateful for to steer away from dwelling on the things that pull you down. This might take some practice but in time can result in a more positive mindset and enhanced resiliency.

Listen to music: Whether you are on your way to work, preparing a meal, or tidying up, put on music that helps you to feel the way that you want to feel. If you are feeling stressed, you might choose calming music. If you are looking to raise your energy, pick something to jazz you up. Try music with lyrics that lifts your spirit. Forget the TV and choose music instead, it can have a significant influence on your mind, body and spirit!

Enhance your spiritual practice: For some this is about finding time to engage in spiritual practice for others it is about exploring your spirituality. This is done through personal reflection, reading, finding a spiritual community or developing your own regular spiritual practice. "Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again." Joseph Campbell

Reward yourself: Commit to a certain time each week to do something with yourself. Visit a museum. Have a bubble bath. Cook yourself a good meal. See a movie. Read a book you've been meaning to read. Call someone you haven't spoken to for a while. Sit in a park. Learn a new language. It doesn't matter what it is, just do something for you.

Remember to laugh: Sometimes life gets too serious and ... When you see or hear something that makes you smile or laugh, share it with someone you know. A little humor can go a long way. Laughter causes our body to release endorphins which decrease tension, stress, anxiety, irritation and anger. Laughter also alleviates grief, and depression. Laughter lowers inhibitions, allowing the release of pent-up emotions. A hearty bout of laughter provides a sense of well-being.

Summary: The Certified staff of WRUSD participated in a Wellness training facilitated by Mr. Mark Standing Eagle Baez, Certified School Psychologist Interim for WRUSD on January 26^th, 2010.  Our staff was given different strategies on reducing stress in a healthy way.  Some of the strategies focused on “Focus on what you are grateful for,” “Remember to laugh,” “Reward yourself,” “Enhance your spiritual Practice,” “Listen to soothing/healthy music for Relaxation.”  We were fortunate to have two great individuals to demonstrate one portion of the training, in which to reduce stress by something I call “Air Guitar Jam Contest.”  The entire staff in attendance broke out in uncontrollable laughter and appreciated the opportunity to come together as staff and focus on their well being as employees of WRUSD.  The classified staff we a great group of individuals and were very respectful thought the training.  Food for thought:  “The day we doubt our happiness, is the day we give power to doubt.” Rev Run.