The Science of Feeling Safe

What happens in a child’s body and brain when, every day, they meet an adult who sees them, waits for them, and holds them steady? I’ll bring you into the classroom and show how a strong educator–child relationship can shift a child’s whole day (and sometimes their longer path): less “alarm,” more curiosity; less shutting down, more play; more words, more learning. It’s a story-driven, science-grounded talk built around one simple truth: kids learn best when they feel safe.

Science shows our bodies can get stuck in three stress states: fight, flight, and freeze. Most of us cannot tell which state we are in, or how to get out. Learn to identify your body’s signals for each survival response, understand what your nervous system is trying to tell you, and use research-backed techniques to resolve stuck states. We will practice exercises together and learn to recognize the physical signs of stress release. Whether struggle with chronic stress or want to develop deeper body awareness, you will gain practical tools grounded in nervous system science.

In the same way one has to take care about their own personal health, they need to think about managing money and investing. Both are the nasty, time-consuming, effort-requiring, non-fun things we have to take care of in our lives. However, it turns out that investing (a little time and effort) to learn about investing (and in particular, specific investment concepts) goes a long way. Knowledge of investment concepts is associated with better investment decision-making, higher financial security, and greater financial wellness.

What is the power of “nature”? Science confirms what many intuit: nature reduces stress, lifts mood, and builds resilience, even in cities and indoors. But nature isn't limited to certain places, scenes, or definitions: it can be a tree downstairs, a fresh breeze in the morning, or even a story in your mind. My research introduces Nature Identity: the idea that nature isn't just something we visit, but something that becomes part of us and shapes who we are. Join me to explore how reconnecting with nature in and out of you can restore wellbeing, spark creativity, and deepen our sense of self.