Teaching Motivation and Energy Strategies

Physiology conditions psychology

There is a direct relationship between our body and our mind. We are not static; we are beings in constant movement and becoming ("we are being").

A fundamental strategy for self-care and motivation is the concept of "moving to be".

If the teacher remains rigid, apathetic or sedentary, his or her mental energy will stagnate.

The simple act of altering body posture, walking, or changing physical settings can alter the emotional and mental disposition with which we approach the classroom.

Rituals of connection and change of state

To break through inertia and generate an environment conducive to learning, it is vital to establish start-up rituals that make a difference.

Small conscious gestures can change the predisposition of an entire group and of the teacher himself.

A personalized greeting, an inspirational phrase at the door, or music as you enter, act as "switches" that disconnect from external problems and connect with the present educational moment.

Practical Example: Instead of walking in and directly saying "open the book to page ten", the teacher can institute the "Landing Minute".

Before starting, play an energetic instrumental song and greet students at the door with a fist bump or visual greeting.

As they enter, he spends a minute getting everyone (including himself) to breathe and visualize a positive intention for the class.

This small ritual changes the brain chemistry of the group and predisposes to collaboration.

Summary

There is a direct relationship between body physiology and the emotional disposition of the educator. Modifying posture or moving helps to avoid stagnation of mental energy.

Initiation rituals, such as music or inspirational phrases, function as switches to connect with the present. These small conscious gestures change the predisposition of the group and the teacher.

Implementing a "Landing Minute" with positive breathing and visualization alters the collective brain chemistry. These habits predispose to collaboration and improve the overall learning environment.