Lesson 1 Self-Soothing
4
INTRODUCTION TO MIND MATTERS
Instructor Note: Begin by introducing yourself and your co-leader (if you have
one) to model the format and level of sharing you’d like participants to use. Adjust
the amount of sharing based on group size and available time, but ensure that each person shares at least
their name and one personal detail, such as an interest, favorite place, or hobby. Starting this way sets a
positive tone, creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, and encourages early connection among group
members.
Throughout this class, we hope you’ll enjoy the experience, learn more about yourself, and gain new insights into the
people around you.
Class Guidelines for a Productive and Enjoyable Experience
Before we begin, let’s review a few basics to help our sessions run smoothly. Please adjust these guidelines as
needed so they best suit your implementation settings and circumstances.
• Class Schedule: Our sessions will take place on [insert dates and times].
• Restrooms: Restrooms are located [insert directions].
• Attendance and Punctuality: Please arrive on time and be ready to start when class begins.
• Breaks and Snacks: We will take breaks at [insert times]. (Note whether snacks will be provided.)
We want you to have fun, and we also need enough structure to create a great learning environment. To get
everyone’s attention, I’ll use (explain the attention-getting activity that you have selected. Some possible
examples are in the Instructor Guidance section at the beginning of the manual.)
Create Values for Our Group
Before starting this class, we need to make sure our time together is a safe and supportive place for all. We want
everyone to feel comfortable, respected, and able to share their thoughts and feelings without fear.
Ask: What are the values or rules we need to help us achieve that?
Write their suggestions on a flipchart. Be sure the following five items are included in their brainstorm:
1. It is important to know that this is not therapy. We will be learning coping skills. Therefore, this is NOT
the time to share negative life experiences. If you happen to get triggered or have intrusive thoughts that
bother you, write down a couple of words to remind yourself of what you want to talk to me about after
class.
2. Respect: Listen attentively when others are speaking, don’t interrupt, and value each person’s unique
perspective and contributions.
3. Time &Place: Clarify that the current setting is not the best place to discuss it and encourage further
support. For example: “This isn’t the best time or place to talk about it. Please speak with me after
class.” Provide printed Online Material: Safety and Support Resources handout.
This approach helps create a space where everyone can safely explore and express their emotions and
thoughts, leading to deeper self-awareness and better emotional regulation.
Let’s GO!
4
INTRODUCTION TO MIND MATTERS
Instructor Note: Begin by introducing yourself and your co-leader (if you have
one) to model the format and level of sharing you’d like participants to use. Adjust
the amount of sharing based on group size and available time, but ensure that each person shares at least
their name and one personal detail, such as an interest, favorite place, or hobby. Starting this way sets a
positive tone, creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, and encourages early connection among group
members.
Throughout this class, we hope you’ll enjoy the experience, learn more about yourself, and gain new insights into the
people around you.
Class Guidelines for a Productive and Enjoyable Experience
Before we begin, let’s review a few basics to help our sessions run smoothly. Please adjust these guidelines as
needed so they best suit your implementation settings and circumstances.
• Class Schedule: Our sessions will take place on [insert dates and times].
• Restrooms: Restrooms are located [insert directions].
• Attendance and Punctuality: Please arrive on time and be ready to start when class begins.
• Breaks and Snacks: We will take breaks at [insert times]. (Note whether snacks will be provided.)
We want you to have fun, and we also need enough structure to create a great learning environment. To get
everyone’s attention, I’ll use (explain the attention-getting activity that you have selected. Some possible
examples are in the Instructor Guidance section at the beginning of the manual.)
Create Values for Our Group
Before starting this class, we need to make sure our time together is a safe and supportive place for all. We want
everyone to feel comfortable, respected, and able to share their thoughts and feelings without fear.
Ask: What are the values or rules we need to help us achieve that?
Write their suggestions on a flipchart. Be sure the following five items are included in their brainstorm:
1. It is important to know that this is not therapy. We will be learning coping skills. Therefore, this is NOT
the time to share negative life experiences. If you happen to get triggered or have intrusive thoughts that
bother you, write down a couple of words to remind yourself of what you want to talk to me about after
class.
2. Respect: Listen attentively when others are speaking, don’t interrupt, and value each person’s unique
perspective and contributions.
3. Time &Place: Clarify that the current setting is not the best place to discuss it and encourage further
support. For example: “This isn’t the best time or place to talk about it. Please speak with me after
class.” Provide printed Online Material: Safety and Support Resources handout.
This approach helps create a space where everyone can safely explore and express their emotions and
thoughts, leading to deeper self-awareness and better emotional regulation.
Let’s GO!
