Final Blog post

Hi everyone,

How is it that we are at the final blog post and done this crazy project?! Time really does fly.

So let’s recap a few things about my stretching journey.

So my driving question was- What would happen to my body, mind, and soul if I stretch for 20 minutes per day? Will I be less stressed, will I sleep better, and will my back pain go away? Will stretching daily better my study habits and create for a better school year?

So answering this honestly- my body feels less tight. I no longer suffer from back pain as much as I used to or as often as I used to. This is because my mind is feeling so much less stress. Stretching gives me a sense of relaxation, and when I am relaxed, I am no longer stressed out and my body is no longer in a defense mechanism, tightening up my muscles, causing them pain. My soul has been genuinely happy. I smile more and feel more positive. I know that sounds weird but it’s true. Stretching before bed has provided me with the best sleep of my life. I pass out immediately, rather than lay awake for hours worrying about everything. Something that I was not able to get the answer to was- will stretching daily better my study habits? For this I say no, and I’m saying no because at the end of the day I am responsible for developing good study habits. Stretching is more of a coping skill for studying. I definitely use stretching while studying when I am feeling stressed, confused, and/or need a metal break. I think that this new tool has definitely provided me with a better school year experience so far.

I definitely achieved my goal of feeling overall balanced in all aspects.

Stretching is something that I don’t plan on stopping. As you get older stretching becomes more and more important for your body and mind. Sure being a student won’t last forever, but there will be even more adult stress in your life. Do you think that teachers don’t want to rip their hair out when their students are acting out? Who knows maybe when I have more time on my hands ill get into to going to yoga classes!

Moving forward- I already mentioned this in my last blog post but ill repeat myself; once I have my own classroom I will DEFINITLY be implementing stretching time for my students. I know that life as a student’s isn’t always rainbows and butterflies, and that things really do get hard and stressful especially for the older grades. I think giving students time to sit down, unwind and stretch will allow them to relax and breathe, and refresh their brains into a more ‘I’ve got this” mindset.

The last couple of weeks have taught me to put my mental health first, to worry less, and to just breathe when times get tough. I’ve learned a routine that works for me and I’ve been able to stick with it. I’ve also learned that my idea can be used in the classroom, as well as outside of the classroom. Stretching will become a key aspect in my life, my student’s lives, and my children’s lives.

I am sad to be saying good bye, but I know this isn’t the last you’ll hear from me. I’ll be out in the world doing something great!

Farwell and Namaste,

Lianna Miller