In the prep stage for this lesson, I cleared off my bulletin board with the exception of the sign in the center, which reads, "Got stress/sophomore-it is/testing fatigue? Can't study for one more minute? Tips and Tricks for Surviving the Last Month of School."
(On the left side, you'll see information about final exams with a folder containing extra study guides.)
We started each lesson with a six-minute session in guided mindfulness meditation. I used the "Relax, Ground, and Clear" meditation on http://stopbreathethink.org/. I prefaced the meditation sequence by asking students to get comfortable, and that what we were about to do would be weird, but that I think they'd like it. And they did! They asked that we do it more often, and I noticed that students were calmer and more focused during class on the days that followed that we opened with meditation.
After we meditated, I gave each group two index cards and a Sharpie, and asked them to write down two tips or tricks for surviving the last month of school. I gave students about five minutes in their groups, and then had each group share with the class. I posted their tips to the board.
Most student advice fell into one of these categories:
- physical wellness (ex: "Drink more water and eat healthier than you normally do.")
- emotional wellness (ex: "Listen to music to de-stress.")
- study tips (ex: "Take frequent breaks while studying.")
- motivation (ex: "Remember your priorities.")
What strategies do you personally use to reduce stress?
How do you promote emotional wellness in your classroom?
