The Brain, The Stress Response, and Emotional Resilience
This workshop focuses on the key components of how the stress response is triggered in our brain and body. Participants will acquire an understanding of the developmental stages of the brain and the evolutionary purpose of our nervous system’s flight, fight, fright, and freeze response.
Through personal practice, we will reflect on the link between strong emotions and the brain’s activation of the stress response. We will examine our personal stress response triggers as well as potential triggers of the youth we serve. Upon examination of these triggers, participants will learn how to explain the stress response to others by demonstrating simple brain science tools. Additionally, we will practice research- based mindfulness strategies that calm the nervous system, stop the stress response and return us to the highest levels of our brain. These strategies allow us to become emotionally resilient and make thoughtful choices in difficult times rather than react automatically and unconsciously.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe and explain a basic model of the brain that relates to the body’s stress response
- Identify and summarize the two parts of nervous system and how they relate to the body’s stress and relaxation responses
- Differentiate stress for themselves (e.g. Positive, Negative, Toxic) and assess other’s stress profiles
- Recognize and interpret the physiology of emotions and use that information to develop resilient coping mechanisms when strong emotions are present
- Demonstrate at least three techniques that regulate the nervous system, slow down the stress response and help us access the highest levels of our brain
- Illustrate and employ the abovementioned concepts, topics, and practices with youth with whom they work