Stress & The Body
Name one place stress shows up in the body.
shoulders, hands, jaw, stomach, etc.
Which one means fighting reality: willful or willing?
Willful
Is a half-smile a big grin or a soft smile?
Soft smile
Are willing hands open or closed?
Open
Name one situation where this skill could help.
School, home, conflict, waiting, being told no
What happens to your body when you’re stressed?
Muscles tighten, breathing gets shallow, hands clench
Give one body sign of willfulness.
Clenched fists, crossed arms, tense face
What does half-smiling tell your brain?
I can handle this / I’m safe
What message do willing hands send to your body?
I’m open / not fighting / I can handle this
When should you try half-smile and willing hands?
When stress starts, even if you don’t want to
True or False: Stress only happens in your thoughts.
False
Finish this sentence: Willingness does NOT mean _______.
Liking it / agreeing with it
Show the group what a half-smile looks like.
Please demonstrate!!
Demonstrate willing hands during a stressful moment.
Please act it out!
Finish this sentence: I don’t have to feel calm to _______.
Use the skill / change my posture