Chapter 2

<p>Chapter 1 explored the concepts of kindness, interdependence, compassion and well-being by exploring what they mean for students. This exploration resulted in the development of class agreements. Chapter 2 explores the important role that our bodies, and in particular our nervous systems, play in our happiness and well-being. It does so by introducing the following:</p><p> </p><p><em>The Science of Resilience</em> </p><p>The structure of the brain gives us insight into how and why we interpret both internal and external experiences. The three part model of the brain helps us to understand the relationship that exists between brain function, nervous system responses, and our ability to experience wellbeing. </p><p> </p><p><em>The Resilient Zone </em></p><p>A way of describing the regulated state of ourselves and our nervous system (in homeostasis) that is neither hyper-aroused (stuck in the high zone) nor hypo-aroused (stuck in the low zone). You can also refer to this as the“OK zone” or “zone of well-being.” </p><p> </p><p><em>Sensations</em> </p><p>A physical feeling or perception within the body that is felt in a particular part of the body, such as warmth, cold, pain, numbness, heaviness, and so on, or the five senses as distinct from emotions and non-physical feelings (like feeling happy or sad). </p><p> </p><p><em>Tracking</em> </p><p>Noticing and attending to sensations in the body in order to build up body awareness or “body literacy.” </p><p> </p><p><em>Personal Resources </em></p><p>Things one likes and associates with greater safety and well-being that can be brought to mind to return to or continue to stay in one’s resilient zone. </p><p> </p><p><em>Grounding</em> </p><p>Attending to the sensation at the point of contact of one’s body with objects or the ground in order to return to or stay in the resilient zone.</p><p> </p><p><em>Help Now! Strategies </em></p><p>Simple and immediate techniques for helping students return to their resilient zone when they get “bumped out” of that zone.</p>