ck to School STRESS into Success by Bethlyn Gerard
works better in a body fueled by protein. Mood highs and lows associated with sugar even out with protein. The next time you or your child is having a meltdown try eating a few almonds (brainfood), a cheese stick or some humus. Protein can be a mighty tantrum stopper for all ages. The sooner the stress stops the sooner the health starts.
O – Oxygen. Learning to control the rate and depth of breathing is one FAST way to reduce stress. The body needs to take in oxygen. It also needs to release toxic, depleted gases. Matching the length of each inhale with the length of each exhale for longer than a 12 count signals the vagus nerve to relax reducing stress in the body. The extended breath and expanded lung capacity increase the availability of oxygen.
W – Water. The body can go weeks without food by only days without water. Pick up the skin on the back of one hand with the thumb and finger of your other hand. Release the pinched skin and notice how long it takes for the skin to return. If it releases slowly, the body needs more fluids. Most kids find it difficult to carry or drink enough water while at school. Consider drinking a cup immediately upon waking as well as in carpool to help replenish the moisture necessary for resilience.
E-Energy. Empty calories waste the body’s efforts because the body has to exert energy to determine whether to use or excuse the food and drink we put in it. Exercise increases endorphins – the feel good juices that improve our mood. Learning how energy enters, circulates and leaves your body helps you notice when you feel drained or energetic. Noticing when you feel your best helps you select activities and foods to build stamina and energy.
R – Rest. The quality and quantity of sleep influences
the body’s ability to repair and replenish itself. Our central nervous system communicates using electronic impulses. EEG and EKG machines show us our electrical activity. Televisions, phones, computers in close proximity to the brain, especially during sleep, may disrupt the body’s attempts to communicate with itself. Maybe that is why people go to places like the mountains and the beach for restoration. Places we consider restful
North Texas Kids • August 2011 •
www.NorthTexasKids.com 9
often have less access to electronics. Consider making your home your sanctuary by removing as many man- made electrical signals from the areas where you and your children rest. We need different amounts of sleep at different ages. For more information check out www.
sleepfoundation.org
You have the power to raise your body’s tolerance and increase your flexibility. Resilience and adaptability help us minimize health risks when we encounter stressful situations. May this be the year we return to school with fun and ease!
Bethlyn Gerard integrates biofield sciences into healthcare. Her energy sessions assist parents, kids, schools and companies. She teaches how to promote health during challenges. You can find free resources and contact her at
www.5starhealing.com or call the Living Well Dallas Center: 972-930-0260.
www.livingwelldallas.com
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