WHY SHOULD I PRACTICE THE SELF-ASSESSMENT?

It has been said; "To start any journey you must begin where you are".  This is true in myth and lore, but also in science.  If we can pause, assess, recognize our state of health, mind and wellness, we create a possibility for change.  Otherwise, we tend to be stuck in our reactive responses, which inherently contain little or no possibility.  So we start with a simple, or even thorough self-assessment/reflection, and it empowers us to have a choice in moving on to the next steps...recordings, and more!

WHY DON'T I JUST CHOOSE A YOUTUBE VIDEO FOR RELAXATION?

For a couple of reasons.  First, we want to have the individual closing their eyes, to deepen the relaxation response.  Second; typically, the recordings you find will be relaxing and sometimes entertaining-keeping your mind busy (such as music or sounds).  That is all fine and good, but the complete program-using all the Take a Breath tools- is going to create new brain mapping opportunities.  That happens best when there is a simple point of focus- the voice leading the practice.

WHY DO I NEED TO PRACTICE COMMUNICATION SKILLS AS A PART OF THIS PROGRAM?

Well, you don't have to practice anything you don't want to in this program.  However, we have put together a ‘best practices’ tool kit for you.  Most of us, in our busy 21st Century lives, communicate regularly.  Via our smartphones, computers, and all the apps and mechanisms available to us.  Yet, much of that communication lacks authenticity.  It is often one-sided, and not personal in a helpful way.  In fact, much of it is impersonal and can be detrimental.  Our guidance will support new patterns and behaviors in communicating.  To listen and speak authentically, and use that communication to solidify the new habits and patterns you are creating in this program.

HOW DO I USE THE ONLINE PROGRAM FOR A CLASSROOM OR GROUP?

We highly recommend initially guiding new users through the 5-Days of B.R.A.V.E.  In addition, while orienting the group we suggest some form of an assessment- verbal, show of hands, or use the long or short assessments provided.  You could also let the group pick a recording appropriate for the time/climate or intentions moving forward with the group.  Then we suggest ending with a 'check-in', a few moments for them to share their thoughts or experience with each other. For more support as a group leader, see our White Paper for Take a Breath for Change.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE DO THE PRACTICES for a group/class?

We recommend choosing a practice time such as at the beginning of the day, after lunch and after any recesses or breaks.  Make it meaningful and consistent- it takes approximately 3 weeks to create new patterns in the brain. So during this initial introduction to the program it is a time to build the climate and culture of the group with safe and reliable practice.

IS TAKE A BREATH ANOTHER MINDFULNESS PRACTICE?

We think of Take a Breath as a pre-mindfulness practice.   This means many students/individuals struggle and remain in a stress response (sympathetic dominant nervous system response).  For those individuals, it is very difficult to teach or lead new information or experience.  Our offerings, including self-assessment, begin an authentic breath change and relaxation response (the parasympathetic nervous system response).  Once they have experienced a balanced and receptive state, we can build on that stress-free foundation.  The online program deals with common obstacles to mindfulness and meditation practices. The program is designed to be accessible and has proven to be of benefit for ALL participants.

 HOW LONG ARE THE PRACTICES?

Guided practices range from 3 minutes to 30+ minutes. For children up to 8 years old the practices are no longer than 10 minutes in order to maintain their attention. 8-12 years old can maintain an attention span of up to 20 minutes, and practices for teens and adults build towards a full 30-minute Take a Breath practice.