Realistic Steps towards Peace.

Recently I applied to a leadership program that addresses issues of equity, inclusion and peace. Where do mindfulness and somatics play a role? Here are my thoughts related to reactivity and emotional regulation.
-Erin Lee Henshaw

Reactivity is distinctly human. Our quick reactions have kept us alive, and continue to get us into trouble. Eight years ago I created a trauma sensitive mindfulness company to support emotional processing, mind-body health and ultimately, give humans more choice about how they react. Reducing reactivity and creating awareness of choice is the cornerstone of changing personal and collective behavior that leads to equity and justice, and it's hasn't historically been taught in schools.

Over the past few years I have taught mindfulness and self-regulation programs in public and private schools in the United States, China and South Africa. Additionally, I have worked with nursing leaders to infuse work culture with stress relief to avoid burnout. Our groups meet every week to heal and grow. Now, I am pursuing my masters in Social Work with a focus on neurodevelopmental disabilities, to bring this work to a larger audience. The research already supports the benefits of these practices, but the world needs leaders and educators who make this message come alive. The reason I have worked in so many countries, is to learn which trauma practices are generalizable to larger populations and how to personalize this message.

I found that our brains work the same, but culture is different. I hope to continue to deliver trauma sensitive emotional regulation content to future leaders and changemakers, who will take the opportunity to choose equity, justice and compassion.