On the June 20th show, we felt it would be helpful to talk about 'triggers.'  After having conversations in the community following the Ft McMurray fires, lots of High River people felt closely connected to their natural disaster, which is normal after going through one in this community.  Many people felt 'triggered' with emotion for the anniversary date from the flood too.  Let me premise by saying if you are feeling that, you're not alone and it's totally normal.  So I contacted Rowan House as they are working through what they call a 'trauma informed delivery model.'  

Sherrie Botten, Executive Director from Rowan House explains what we mean by that and how it can relate to you and your family.

We also chatted with Brittany an In-Shelter Team Lead about the guided meditation technique...

Here is what that script looks like:

Sit up straight in your chair, feel your feet on the floor and your back against the chair. Pay attention to your breathing.

-First, look around and see five things present where you are, naming them in your head.

-Then name five things you can hear, like the humming of a fan, cars passing by, the dishwasher running, and so forth.
-Then name five things you can feel (sense of touch).

-Repeat as many times as needed.

Kids/Teens:

Begin by tracing your hand on a piece of paper and label each finger as one of the five senses. Then take each finger and identify something special and safe representing each of those senses.

For example: Your thumb might be labeled smell and that could be represented by lilacs.

-After writing and drawing this all on paper, post it on your fridge or other safe places in the home where it can be easily seen and memorized.

-Whenever you get triggered, breathe deeply and slowly and put your hand in front of your face where you can really see it. Stare at your hand and then look at each finger and try to do the fize senses exercise from memory.

To help teach really young children to breathe deeply:

Get them to pretend they are holding a birthday cupcake out in front of their face.Tell them to "Sniff the delicious smell of the icing into your belly, now, blow out the candle!" Repeat as many times as needed.

And we caught up with Ally Cramm the Community Relations Coordinator on more grounding techniques for you and for your children...