Objective: To help students develop a habit of checking in with their stress levels and taking brief pauses to identify where they feel stressed, which can be helpful before or during stressful situations.
Instructions:
1. When you feel tension or stressful thoughts, stop for a moment and take one slow, deep breath.
2. Scan your body: Are your shoulders tight? Jaw clenched? Stomach tense?
3. Notice your arms — are they relaxed or stiff?
4. Feel your feet on the ground — heavy or light?
5. Check your posture — upright, slouched, or leaning?
6. If you find tension, simply notice it without trying to change anything or relax your body.
7. Stay with these sensations for a few seconds, then continue your day with this gentle awareness.
Optional Reflection:
1. How do you feel after this short activity?
2. Did using it help you feel more relaxed or prepared in a stressful situation?
3. Did you notice any areas of tension that you weren’t aware of?