Understanding Somatic Anxiety

Ariana Bueno

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Understanding Somatic Anxiety

Address Somatic Anxiety

In this lesson, students will explore the concept of somatic anxiety, focusing on fears related to bodily sensations and getting sick. Through a video and interactive activities, students will learn to identify and understand common bodily functions, reducing fear and anxiety. This lesson is important as it helps students develop a healthy understanding of their bodies and equips them with strategies to manage somatic anxiety.

Audience

Students Grades K-5

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Active Learning, Experiential Learning, Game-Based Learning

Materials

Colored pencils, Video: Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches, Discussion Questions, and Drawing Paper

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion about how our bodies can sometimes feel different when we're worried or anxious.
Introduce the concept of somatic anxiety and relate it to everyday situations they might encounter, like feeling nervous before a test.

Step 2

Video Viewing

5 mins

Show the video Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches.
Ask students to pay attention to how the bunny's body might feel when it's anxious.

Step 3

Discussion

5 mins

Use the discussion questions to talk about the video.
Encourage students to share their thoughts on how their bodies feel when they are anxious and relate it to the bunny's experience.

Step 4

Creative Activity

10 mins

Provide students with drawing paper and colored pencils.
Ask them to draw a picture of themselves and label parts of the body where they feel anxiety (e.g., stomach, head).
Encourage them to use colors to express how these sensations make them feel.

Step 5

Sharing and Reflection

5 mins

Allow students to share their drawings with the class if they feel comfortable.
Discuss as a group how understanding these sensations can help manage anxiety.

Step 6

Closure

5 mins

Summarize the key points of the lesson.
Reinforce the idea that it's okay to feel anxious and that understanding our bodies can help us manage these feelings.

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Discussion

Somatic Anxiety Discussion

A guided discussion to help students reflect on the video and relate it to their own bodily sensations and experiences.

What did the bunny do when it felt anxious?

Discuss the fight, flight, and freeze responses and relate them to bodily sensations.

Can you think of a time when your body felt different because you were worried?

Encourage students to share personal experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

What are some things you can do when your body feels anxious?

Guide students to think about coping strategies like deep breathing, talking to someone, or drawing.