Monday, April 23, 2012
7:30-9:00 pm

HALT- its a quick tool for remembering to check in on possible invitations to Anger, Irritation or Bad Temper:

Hungry?

Angry?

Lonely?

Tired?

Which of these states is inviting Anger to get busy?

Low blood sugar decreases our bodies ability to keep it together, and chases Patience out the door. A banana is the perfect cure! Ask yourself or your child: when was the last time you ate? Have you been treating your body well?

Anger at an injustice, unfairness, or a mis-labeling is sometimes a legitimate protest, made when you or your child is standing up for their values, for things that are important to them. You might try to take some time away, wait for the adrenalin of anger to ebb, and then ask: What was important to me in that situation? or what was at stake for my child? Is there a way to share that information that will build bridges, instead of fires??

Loneliness, hurt feelings, isolation can all invite Anger and Bad Temper- sometimes these things go ‘underground’ and operate behind the scenes. Are you or your child feeling like you are missing out, or suffering from a sense of un-appreciation? What is getting in the way of connecting with other people? Who might you reach out to for a chat, or connection?

Tiredness undoes the best of us. We recognize it in little kids (‘she really needs a nap’) but often don’t notice its effects for older kids, or adults. Lack of sleep often leads to a certain fogginess of the brain- we don’t understand other people clearly, and instructions or requests can be confusing. Tiredness can increase our sensitivity to noise or stimulation. It can help to just take a moment to check in- how much sleep did you get? Does your child need a bit of extra rest?

A quick check-list- it can help us practice compassion, patience and helpfulness, towards ourselves and the people we love.

Read more blog posts from Bonnie Miller here