Promoting Physiological Development and Well-being through Fitness and Life Skills

Practice flashcards covering the physiological impacts of mindfulness, social competence through physical activity, and adolescent developmental tasks.

Mindfulness

The psychological process of intentionally bringing one's attention to internal and external experiences in the present moment, without judgment.

Cortisol

The stress hormone whose levels are reduced through regular mindfulness practice and controlled breathing.

Box Breathing Exercise

A rhythmic technique involving inhaling for $4$ counts, holding for $4$ counts, exhaling for $4$ counts, and holding empty for $4$ counts to reset the autonomic nervous system.

Autonomic Reset

The activation of the parasympathetic nervous system through box breathing to counteract the fight-or-flight stress response.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The body's "rest and digest" mode, which signals safety and lowers the release of cortisol.

Protective Factors

Conditions or attributes in individuals, families, and communities that promote well-being and resilience, such as adequate sleep of $8-10$ hours and regular physical activity.

Risk Factors

Variables that increase the likelihood of negative health outcomes, including chronic lack of sleep, high academic stress, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Social Competence

The ability to achieve personal goals in social interactions while maintaining positive relationships with others.

Communication (Contextualized)

Expressing ideas and listening actively while in motion and under time pressure during physical activities.

Negotiation

Finding solutions collaboratively when group members propose different strategies during movement exercises.

Conflict Resolution

Managing frustration and disagreement without damaging the relationship or goal during group tasks.

The Human Knot

A collaborative movement exercise where a group of five students must untangle themselves without letting go of each other's hands.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters released during physical recreational activities that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators.

Havighurst's Developmental Tasks

A psychological framework describing key stages such as mature peer relations and social role achievement that late adolescents must navigate.

Mature Peer Relations

Achieving new relationships with age-mates of all genders built on mutual respect and communication.

Social Role Achievement

Developing a clear and comfortable sense of one's masculine, feminine, or personal social role in society.

Accepting One's Physique

Developing a positive body image, accepting physical changes, and using the body effectively through health practices.

Wellness Roadmap

A personalized plan consisting of a mindfulness routine, physical activity goals, and a specific social competence goal.

Gallery Walk

A peer-sharing activity where students display their Wellness Roadmaps to build a support network and find classmates with similar goals.

Wellness Journal

An extended learning task where students document for one full week how mindfulness and interpersonal interactions influence their mood and behavior.