GHC June 2023

Growing Healthy Children’s staff is committed to engaging in reflective practices and mastering self-regulation so that we can be present and connected for those we serve and for each other. We have learned about so many wonderful tools over the years and we want to share them with you!

Here is an in-the-moment regulation reset. There are so many ways we can adjust our nervous system but this one is my favorite. This tool focuses on our vestibular system, the structures of the inner ear that register head movement. We all have a different level of optimal input to this system. When I began working remotely and stopped spinning, swinging, and climbing with the kids in the therapy gym, I noticed that I was much quicker to frustrate and generally less positive in how I approached my daily interactions. As someone whose favorite days are spent on skis or a mountain bike I guess it makes sense I would struggle with a sedentary job.  It is amazing how just a little bit of head movement can shift my energy and mood in such a positive way. 

If you are a mover like me, this regulation activity might work better for you than others because it gives stronger input to the very important vestibular system. Give it a try and let us know what you think. Happy Summer!

1. Take a deep breath. Stand with feet shoulder width apart and arms at your side (if needed for balance, stand behind a chair).

2. Rock back and forth shifting your weight from side to side. As you move one way, inhale. Exhale as you shift the other way. Repeat 10x going as fast or slow as you like.

3. Rock back and forth shifting your weight from front to back (heel to toe). As you move one way, inhale.  Exhale as you shift the other way. Repeat 10x going as fast or slow as you like.

4. Bend forward at the waist. Drop your head. Reach toward your toes. Count to 10.  Slowly stand up. Repeat as needed.

5. Place your hands on the back of your hips. Stretch your trunk and neck backwards and lower your head looking toward the wall behind you. Count to 10. Slowly lift your head to midline. Repeat as needed. Remember to breathe throughout.