HEALTH
Tips on nutrition, mindfulness, and breathing routines in relation to
improving subjective well-being.
Why is Health at the core of our program?
Equitable and supportive educational experiences are well documented in the research as key indicators of the health of individuals and their communities. In a post-pandemic society students enrolled in schools are experiencing increasing levels of anxiety and depression which may manifest as visits to the school nurse or clinic, frequent absenteeism, behavioral challenges in the school setting and others.
The HEART Project aimed to develop a mechanism to address some of these challenges through the use of Art and teacher mentoring to reduce “sick visits” to the nurse and absenteeism for psychosomatic complaints as well as punitive practices such as “no recess until your work is completed.” Missed educational opportunities are directly correlated with negative health outcomes throughout life. Children from communities of color are particularly affected by low educational achievement and its effect on their health.
WHAT DO I DO WHEN I FEEL FUNNY?
Regulating breathing and heart rate is crucial for anxiety-prone children, as these physiological responses are directly linked to the body’s stress response. When anxious, children often experience rapid breathing and an elevated heart rate, which can intensify feelings of fear and overwhelm.
WHAT CAN WE DO TO REDUCE FEELINGS OF ANXIETY?
Teaching children techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness helps activate the body’s relaxation response, counteracting the stress-induced fight-or-flight mechanism. By managing these physical symptoms, children can regain a sense of control and reduce the intensity of their anxiety, fostering emotional resilience and a greater sense of calm.
WHAT IS THAT FUNNY FEELING?
Feeling nervous is a normal part of being human, and it doesn’t mean you’re sick. When you’re nervous, your body might feel a little funny—like a fast heartbeat or butterflies in your stomach—but these are just signs that your body is getting ready for something important, like a big test or a presentation. It’s like your body’s way of saying, “I’m ready!” So, even though it might feel uncomfortable, it’s not a sign of illness. It’s just your brain and body working together to help you face challenges!
Click on the video below to learn more about the effects of trauma on the body.
Content from YouTube can't be displayed due to your current cookie settings. To show this content, please click "Consent & Show" to confirm that necessary data will be transferred to YouTube to enable this service. Further information can be found in our Privacy Policy. Changed your mind? You can revoke your consent at any time via your cookie settings.
The National Association of School Nurses provides multiple resources to help you learn more about mental health.
Grow Your Mind aims to foster mentally healthy children, families and teachers. Using animal analogy to teach key parts of the brain, children are introduced to the basics of neuroscience and what it means to feel mentally healthy.
The Momentous Institute provides articles, videos, activities, videos, and podcasts on the brain, mental health, and wellness.
Ideas On Frustration
When you feel frustrated, it’s normal to want to give up or get angry, but there are ways to manage those feelings. Taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or stepping away for a short break can help calm your mind and body. Sometimes, just talking to someone about what’s bothering you can make a big difference.
Remember, it’s okay to feel frustrated, but finding ways to manage it will help you
feel better and solve problems more easily. Practice patience with yourself—you’re learning and growing with every challenge!
Ideas On Perseverance
Perseverance is all about sticking with something, even when it feels tough or you don’t succeed right away. In school, there will be times when assignments are hard, or you make mistakes, but that’s okay! Every time you keep trying, you get better and learn more. Perseverance helps you build confidence, discover new strengths, and achieve your goals. Remember, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about doing your best and never giving up. Keep going, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish!
Ideas On Self-Esteem
It’s easy to feel unsure of yourself sometimes, but remember, you’re capable of more than you think! When you start to doubt yourself, try to focus on what you’ve already done well. Tell yourself, “I can do this!” and believe in your
abilities. Everyone makes mistakes or faces challenges, but that’s part of learning. Instead of saying, “I can’t,” try saying, “I’ll keep trying!” Encouraging yourself helps build confidence and reminds you that with effort and a positive
attitude, you can achieve your goals. Believe in yourself—you’ve got this!
Nutrition
Nutrition is a key component to combatting stress, reducing the effects of trauma, and living a healthy lifestyle.
Turtle Island Tales
Are you looking for nutrition information focused on Indigenous families and children? Look no further than the Turtle Island Tales, a multi-faceted approach to well- being created by the experts on the CAIRHE team at Montana State University.