1. Mindfulness Strategies to Reduce Anxiety and Stress
Andi Gowins and Christina Jones
music

2. What does it mean to be mindful?
Jones
Stop and Jot/Draw
“It’s the awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment and nonjudgmentally.”

3. Parenting is a tough gig...
Jones

4. Stress defined… Eustress- Positive Stress
Motivates, focuses energy, improves performance, short term
Examples: going on vacation, a promotion, having a baby, moving, etc.
Distress – Negative Stress
Reduces productivity, induces fight, flight or freeze response, raises blood sugar, heart rate, and slows digestion
Examples: conflict in relationships, high demands in work environment, illness and health problems
Jones

5. Mind-blowing Stats.
Medical researchers believe that as much as 90% of doctors visits are related to stress
More than 50% of American adults admit their stress has caused adverse health problems
Stress is clearly linked to the 6 leading causes of death in the U.S. i.e. heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide
Jones

6. Why is this important?
The world is full of stimulus and stress, which can have detrimental impacts on our minds, body, and relationships.
In the U.S. we make up 5% of the world's population, and consume 75% of the worlds prescription medication.
Heart Disease is the leading cause of death for both and men and women in the U.S.
Emotional stress that persists for weeks or months can weaken immune systems, cause high blood pressure, fatigue, depression, and even heart disease.
Anxiety and stress is contagious.
Jones

7. Andrea

8. Your Brain
Andi

9. Andi- we need to pay attention to our WHOLE self - not just what’s on the surface

10. Self Awareness Mood Meter App! http://moodmete rapp.com/
Jones and Andi (app)
Have audience plot current mood

11. Centering Activity
Jones-make out of pipe cleaners

12. Square Breathing
Andi

13. Take 5
Andi

14. The Power of No!
Andi and Jones

15. Progress not Perfection!
Let’s Practice a Mindful Moment