Learning how to “do” Self-Reg is multi-faceted. It includes learning and understanding the science and theory and then using that knowledge to develop new ways of seeing, understanding and responding to behaviour and reactions in others (and ourselves). That is an ongoing process. But at the same time, we need strategies we can grab to deal with situations in the moment, when there is little or no time to reflect and consider the Self-Reg angle. We need strategies to lighten the stress load.
The MEHRIT Centre has a number of tools that can help.
One of the key ultimate goals of Self-Reg is to find ways to lighten someone’s stress backpack. When a person’s stress load is lightened, it reduces tension and frees up some of the energy we need to meet challenges, accomplish goals and get along with people.
This tool depicts nine in-the-moment ways to lighten someone’s stress load. It serves both as a reminder and a kickstarter for brainstorming other ways to help ourselves and others find calm by lightening the stress load.
