Spring Break Starts Early!

Our energy levels naturally change when the seasons change. We see higher energy levels in patients in crisis mental health and in students in the classroom. 

Instead of trying to squelch this natural increase in energy, try meeting it with Breathe Move Rest practices from movemindfully. 

When youth exhibit high energy, consider implementing the following mind-body breaks in your environment: 

Lion’s/Shh Breath – Meet high energy with a releasing breath. Either Lion’s (a big breath out as you stick out your tongue) or Shh Breath (breathing out with a Shh sound). When energy seems to be amping up, do one of these breaths 3-5 times as a reset. End with Hands on Head or Head on Desk. 

Plank Holds – We use these a lot in both in-patient and classroom settings when faced with high energy. Give everyone choices about how they will access this move – Kneeling Plank or Raised Knee Plank – Forearm Plank or Straight Arm Plank. Then challenge everyone to stay in their version of Plank until they need a break. They can lie down for a few breaths or move into Child’s. Once they take a break, invite them to try Plank again. 

Sensory Check-In – If you notice youth are restless during class or group, take that as a cue for a rest break. Invite everyone to sit up tall, breathe slowly, and Twist. Ask youth to notice a few things they can see over each shoulder as they breathe slowly for 3-5 breaths. Ask them to take a few more slow breaths after they finish twisting. Invite them to check in and notice how they feel after this brief mind-body break. 

Remember to do these practices along with the youth – notice how YOU feel when you build in time to Breathe Move Rest.