Cheryl Melody Baskin, Author of "Shift of Heart."
One Second Brain-Body Building Character Technique
A Kinesthetic "Peace Begins with You and MeTM" Technique
As perfectly imperfect human beings, we need to inspire ourselves and our children to make moment to moment choices in "being peace." Creating a personal brain-body cue is like giving ourselves a self-pat on the back for reinforcement, but it is more subtle. This approach also develops intrapersonal intelligence and emphasizes the joy of "being the changes we want in the world." It brings each of us to a higher state of consciousness.
True Example: I was in a line at the bank, and spotted a penny on the floor next to a woman's foot. I bent down to pick up the penny, and offered it to her with a smile. I know that this is a small action and seemingly a minor one, but the surprise and smile on that person's face was delightful! As I stepped back in line, I contemplated that quick magical moment. I had awareness that my small choice of action created a positive vibration.
My 1 Second Brain-Body Cue: I wanted to reinforce this good feeling. I placed my hand on my heart for 1 second as a way of saying..."What I did and said made this other person feel good. I want to do this more. It feels good. This is how I can make a difference in the world. Just small things. Keep it going, and teach it to children too. "
Invent your kinesthetic brain-body cues, and teach this technique to children: The cues created are not noticed by anyone but you, and are 1 second in duration. Here are some examples of brain-body cues: Gently touch heart area for one second; Place thumb and 3rd finger together in an arc; Wiggle toes in shoes; Tap middle of forehead one time. Any cue invented is a self-reinforcement tool and is your "secret" signal for continuing to walk on the peace begins with you and me path, while inspiring children to do the same.
This approach can build self-awareness and encourage each of us to be the highest version of ourselves as much as possible. Each time we say or do something we recognize to be kind, loving and "filling someone's bucket," (Carol McCloud), we have contributed to creating a kinder and more loving world.