We Choose Wellness

On Monday, teachers will be handing out tickets when they see random acts of kindness. At the end of the day, tickets will be drawn and the winners will receive gift cards to the movies!

Did you know that performing acts of kindness can change your brain? Being kind boosts serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters in the brain that give you feelings of satisfaction and well being. Endorphins, which are your body's natural pain killer, are also released.

Child psychologist, Dr. Bhawani Ballamudi says, "There are several biochemical changes that happen in our brain...research shows that kindness can be cardioprotective. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a stress hormone, which directly impacts stress levels Oxytocin releases nitric oxide.which dilates your blood vessels and thereby reduces your blood pressure and improves heart health." (SSM Health)

Feeling anxious? Look around you and name three things you see. Then, name three sounds you hear. Finally, move three parts of your body — your ankle, fingers, or arm. Whenever you feel your brain going 100 miles per hour, this mental trick can help center your mind, bringing you back to the present moment!

Arkansas Arts Academy has enjoyed a long time partnership with the Rogers Historical Museum. On November 2nd, Arkansas Arts Academy collaborated with Rogers Historical Museum on Dia de las Muertos events!