Owl Brain 🦉
What is the Owl Brain best at doing?
Thinking, problem-solving, making good choices.
What is the Watchdog Brain trying to do?
Protect you from danger.
What does the Possum Brain want you to do?
Freeze, hide, or shut down.
What is a "trigger"?
Something that makes you feel big feelings very fast.
What is one way to practice self-control?
Taking 3 deep breaths before reacting, etc
When does your Owl Brain come online?
When you feel safe and calm.
What happens to your body when your Watchdog Brain is awake?
Fast heart, clenched fists, feeling ready to fight or yell.
What happens to your body when your Possum Brain is in charge?
Body feels floppy, frozen, or very tired
Name one thing that can trigger your Watchdog Brain.
Someone yelling, feeling blamed, feeling unsafe.
What is one thing you can say to yourself when you feel upset?
"I can handle this." or "It's okay to feel upset." etc.
Name 2 smart choices your Owl Brain can help you make.
Solving a problem, asking for help, walking away from a fight.
Name 2 feelings you might have when your Watchdog Brain is in charge.
Angry, scared, mad, frustrated.
Name 2 feelings that show your Possum Brain is in charge.
Feeling numb, anxious, helpless, sad, hopeless.
Name one thing that can trigger your Possum Brain.
Being ignored, feeling embarrassed, being overwhelmed.
How does your body feel when you are calm?
Soft muscles, slow breathing, steady heartbeat.
How can you help your Owl Brain stay awake?
Deep breaths, calming down, asking for a break, using coping tools.
What are 2 body clues that your Watchdog Brain is awake?
Tight muscles, fast breathing, shouting, pacing.
What is one thing you can do if you notice you're in Possum Brain?
Move your body a little, ask for help, get a drink of water.
What is one trigger you have noticed in yourself?
Personal answer — example: when people laugh at me, when I get corrected.
Name one new skill you want to practice when you feel upset.
Personal answer — examples: walking away, talking it out, squeezing a squishy toy.
Describe a time your Owl Brain helped you.
Personal answer — examples: staying calm during a test, solving a fight with a friend.
How can you calm your Watchdog Brain down?
Deep breaths, squeezing a stress ball, getting a hug, asking for space.
Share a time you felt like a Possum Brain took over.
Personal answer — examples: feeling too scared to talk, freezing in class.
How can you tell you are being triggered? (Body clues)
Tight chest, racing heart, wanting to yell or hide.
What helps your Owl Brain feel strong and ready?
Feeling safe, getting enough sleep, practicing calming skills.