Health & Wellbeing

Resources for health and wellbeing

Thank you to Lainie Berka, School Council Representative, for sharing this resource, a collection of ideas and links to support health and wellbeing at this time. 

https://bit.ly/3bZHDFq

 

The following is a short e-book that came through some education links that I read over the last couple of days. It won't be to everyone's tastes or needs, but it provides a different, more thoughtful, science-based approach to exploring the virus than many other sources I've encountered. Well worth a look. 

Mindfulness at home

During this period of limited social interaction, it is good to remember that being kind to ourselves and those around us is really important. As the weeks roll on and we find ourselves limited to only a few people to have face-to-face conversations with, it is understandable that some of us may feel that our levels of tolerance may have dwindled. Everyone has moments of feeling frustrated, anxious, annoyed and cranky; adults and children alike. Trying to remember that the circumstances that may be leading to increased frustrations are not permanent is important, as well as taking time to enjoy things that help you find a balance in life, remain calm and positive and restore your energy level. 

Thinking and acting mindfully doesn't mean that you walk around in a constant state of euphoria. People who respond mindfully to things acknowledge that some things are a source of frustration, but rather than wallowing in that state, try and see the situation as it is,  and seek to find the positives. The students at RNPS are experts at thinking and working with a growth mindset, and it is opportune for parents to also try and adopt the same mindset in these times. 

One way to help restore a sense of evenness and calm is through meditation. Meditation is not for everyone, but it takes many different forms. One of our parents, Mel, has been kind enough to create a short 'Movement Meditation' that you may like to try out with your family. It is quick and easy, and something that will undoubtedly help you start your day with a little more energy. 

Thank you to Mel for her hard work and generosity in sharing her talents with the school community. 

Importance of Gratitude

In the last issue of the newsletter, I wrote about how important it was to show gratitude towards those around us, and for all the great things we have in our lives. It is easy to become swept up in negativity, especially if you are being bombarded with input from the media. It is understandable that children can become frightened and concerned about things, especially when there seems to be so much information, and very few answers. Some things are beyond our control, but taking time to be grateful for the things we do have, and the things we can control is a wonderful way to remain grounded, and not let feelings and emotions spiral. 

There are so many gratitude practices, and finding one that works for your family can be fun. Here are some gratitude practices that you might like to try - 

Conflict Management

Each year our Year 6 students participate in a program called Martial Arts Therapy, or the MAT program, through Therapeutic Engagement Support Services. The program is a high energy that links self-regulation and self-management techniques to physical movement. The following link is a session run by one of the instructors that may be of benefit to some students.