Hosts: Amanda Marshall, Skye Hughes, and Will Masara
Topic: How understanding and managing your nervous system transforms the way you lead, teach, and connect with young people.
In this energised and insightful episode, the hosts unpack why your state matters more than your script. From recognising dysregulation to building a personal “toolbelt” of regulatory strategies, this conversation blends science, storytelling, and practical tips for educators, parents, and youth leaders.
Your Nervous System Walks In First
The team kicks off with a powerful reminder:
“Your nervous system walks into the room before you even do.” – Will
They explore how our internal state sets the tone for every interaction, often before a word is spoken. Whether you’re parenting, teaching, or facilitating, your regulation directly shapes how safe and supported young people feel in your presence.
Spotting Dysregulation – In You and Them
Through relatable examples (including speeding up a meditation track… for efficiency), the hosts highlight common signs of dysregulation: racing thoughts, rapid speech, irritability, muscle tension, and shorter patience. They connect this to the overstimulated pace of modern life and the decline of naturally regulatory activities like boredom, creativity, and unstructured outdoor time.
Tools for Regulation – Fast and Personal
The discussion turns practical with strategies you can use before and during high-pressure moments:
Breathwork: Keep the exhale longer than the inhale to calm the system.
Movement: Loosen shoulders, unclench your jaw, and shake out tension.
Micro-pauses: Build in five minutes before class or a presentation to ground yourself.
Mantras: Use simple, soothing self-talk like “You’ve got this.”
Everyday choices: Hydration, nutrition, and rest all influence your state.
The hosts stress that regulation is not about being calm 100% of the time – it’s about presence, awareness, and choosing responses that foster connection.
Practical Strategies for Educators
Lead with state-awareness: Check in with your body before stepping into a room.
Model regulation openly: Narrate your process when you’re re-centering.
Co-regulate with intention: Remember that a dysregulated adult cannot co-regulate with a child.
Assume activation: Even if you feel fine, use your go-to tools before key moments.
Ask two key questions: “What is my body saying right now?” and “What do I want it to say instead?”
Conclusion
Understanding your nervous system is not optional in education – it’s foundational. By regulating yourself, you make space for trust, safety, and learning. As Amanda puts it, “You deserve to feel regulated and not feel frustrated by every tiny little thing.”
Links:
Podclass: www.ylaaus.com/podclass
Youth Engagement Project (YEP): https://youthengagementproject.com/
YLAA: www.ylaaus.com