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DISCOVER
SUMMER 2016
Thank You Genesis City Academy,
For Believing...
Summer of 2016 we expanded our summer camp to include anti-bullying workshops with a holistic approach to wellness through nutrition and fitness by adding mind, body, and spirit elements. The Discover U Summer Camp exceeded our expectations by giving a unique experience 4 day, 4 plus hour a day of non-stop exciting activities through a combination of Yoga, Nutrition, Primal Fitness, and the Release the Fear’s Bridging Possibilities Workshops. Each of these segments had a common core design of selfreflection, self-confidence, ambition, respect of self and others, and believing in one’s self. Most effective were the segments on self-empowerment and knowing that each individual has the power of choice. This message was a common theme that was weaved through the entire Discover U Camp. Students were able to “Discover their TRUE U” and learn to make choices that promote the power of healthy minds, bodies, and spirits. Each day before camp started kids had time to reflect from their journals and recap in the group by sharing what they learned the day before, what tools they learned, and how this discovery is going to help them achieve their future goals and dreams. Yoga breathing techniques offered helped kids learn to calm themselves, oxygenate blood flow, and maximize their brain potential. The ideas of what is their Authentic Self, Being Present, True Happiness, how to Concentration and Creating Peace in their life. Participants reflected in their journals and created their own mantra and mantra symbol (affirmation or mission statement for their life) that they could reflect on to re-inspire them after summer camp. In the Nutrition segment they learned about sources of carbs, proteins, fiber, and the role they play in success at school, sports and their future; showing visuals of healthy food choices designing healthy snacks. We did this through visual and kinesthetic games. Each group of five was given a series of flashcards each having a vegetable or body part, they got to work as a team and match up what vegetable benefits what body part. In example, if you cut open a carrot it looks like an eye, etc. In a different game, they played as a team and got to figure how long you had to walk to work off various items like a bag of Cheetos or a slice of pizza or a large Coke. After each one of these games, the teams were given beads and points as prizes and incentives. Kids learned how to read labels by holding up a finger for healthy items on a label, like vitamins and protein and taking away fingers for items that exceed healthy fat and carbohydrate levels. Participants learned about portion size through visual recognition, such as pasta portion size is half a baseball, a pancake should be the size of the compact disc, and meat, fish, and poultry portion should be the size of a deck of cards. Then each day the group received a tray full of ingredients for that day's lunch and measured proportions for each person and they learned to make their own lunch. They also were given menus in Spanish and English saying what the recipe contains and the list of carbs, protein, fat, and calories of each lunch serving and snack. They recorded this information in their journals to take home and share with family members. After lunch the kids participates in Release the Fear's Bridging Possibilities (BP) program, they consist of many creative interactive hands-on activities exploring whole brain thinking, exploring healthy life choices to see possibilities and purpose. Instruction happens through
various interactive creative process activities that utilize inquiry-based learning experiences, an educational practice where the director/facilitator uses controlled questioning to serve as a learning guide in order to move students toward new understandings through each individual’s expression through stories, activities and artwork. BP workshops activities include: 1. Who Am I? Objective to understand cultural diversity, how much we all have in common; yet often “judge a book by its cover”. 2. Creative Storytelling. Objective to learn to express yourself through drawing and learning to use various skills to build your memory through visual content while developing understanding and respect for one another. 3. Seeing Beyond: Objective to have students use senses to describe and identify an object, stimulating the sense of touch, smell, and intuition using new descriptive words: translucent, opaque, sphere, and cylinder shape, developing better creative communication, a keener sense of understanding, and a new way to explore the world around them. 4. Through the Hoops. Objective to learn to work as a team and identify the skills of self and others, asking for help when needed, so if you see others who have a skill you want to have to achieve your dreams, ask for help. 5. Drawing Our Memories, Fears, Hopes, and Dreams. Objective to discuss the concept that drawing is a means to communicate feelings and ideas, utilizing their favorite and least favorite color. Overcome doubts and recognize fears, then achieve your dreams by listening to yourself rather than others. 6. Yes, No. Objective is to focus clearly and become passionate about your dream, grasp what is necessary to get past the “no’s” in life and be supportive of others. 7. Group Painting. Objective is to promote the concept and skills of using teamwork and the power of community. They start out by the understanding the concept of foundation with the blank canvas symbolizing foundation. We interject a review of what primary and secondary colors are and when you mix two secondary colors together you get tertiary. They learn the difference between accentuate and desecrate, accentuating power and movement simultaneously, and learn to respect the expression of others. They step back from the canvas and discover the use of perspective and how that tool can be used in their lives as a key to problem solving. The finished piece is titled by the group and put on display as a symbol of what they have achieved together. Each day ended by putting the core messages into motion, with the Primal fitness team reinforcing the message of choice and the importance of physical fitness, using tires to increase strength, endurance and balance. Nutrition lessons in portioning food correctly. Self-esteem enlightenment referencing the importance of choosing friends, self empowering each of them, and they responded by saying they are able to have the confidence within themselves to know when to say no, to follow their own path not someone else's and no when they need to go. Day 1, Students participated in a back-to-basics approach at physical fitness that not only built their physical strength, but their mental strength as well. As students engaged in fitness exercises, they chanted “ambitious” and were motivated by to be ambitious about… Life. Day 2, Kids began to be genuinely motivated after Day 1 and were excited to start moving forward. The students participated in team building physical exercises in which encouraging their teammates was applauded by staff. The message at the end of class focused on being motivated about… Life.
Day 3, the students became engaged in knowing they were equipped with the physical and mental strength that would get them through the challenging fitness exercises. The message at the end of class focused on being energized recognizing their strengths and how to overcome fear by keeping a positive outlook on… Life. Day 4, as students participated in fitness activities they were able to recognize the culmination of the weeks lessons and focused on their choice in building physical and mental strength using their own resources readily available to them, their families, and their communities. The message at the end of class focused on using your natural resources to lead a healthy… Life, by realizing the power of mind, body and spirit within each of them and the choice is theirs to bring forth positive results. What these students gained from this experience will carry on throughout their lives and even in to their communities. It truly turned out to be a summer camp unlike any other…
Participants in the 2016 Discover U Summer Camp Yoga Program were encouraged to move toward more sustainable means of communication, self-confidence, social competence, and spatial awareness through the practice of yoga. The 2016 Discover U Summer Camp Yoga curriculum was designed specifically to introduce children to the concepts of awareness, sustainability, and effective thinking; and to give them the tools to positively navigate an ever-shifting society. By allowing them a safe space for self-expression and epistemological exploration, the children had an opportunity to define their personal goals and dreams. Then, working with themes like “teamwork”, “self-respect”, and “breathing to focus”, the children were exposed to new ideas that opened up their concepts of self. And by identifying and addressing their physical, mental, and emotional needs, the children were able to establish personal values as well as the human values that inspire them to reach their goals, both short term and life-long. At the very least, participants gained a deeper understanding of their bodies and minds. At best, the children took away a set of skills that will give them a distinct advantage in their journeys toward the bright future.
Opening up possibilities for the young minds of Arizona’s youth for a brighter tomorrow.
Thanks to Genesis City Academy and the Discover U Sponsors, 10 young lives from Genesis Academy experienced their Possibilities. The Discover U Summer Camp took placeon June 20 – 23rd 2016. Discover U Summer Camp along with “Bridging Possibility”. Through stories, activities and artwork, Release the Fear’s Workshops will help students to:
Stimulate Creative Listening and Communication Bridge Understanding Discuss How Color Affects Us and Our Environment Awaken Senses Heighten Visual Awareness of Our Environment Turn Pain into Possibilities into Purpose.
The students are divided into four groups or teams that they remain with throughout the workshop. In their small group, the students may be asked to complete an activity, to share responses, or to reflect on an exercise. Often times these groups can have students with different beliefs, various backgrounds, and even opposing gang affiliations. The workshop will end with a group created painting to be displayed for the public. Participant Responses Participants are asked to reflect on several of the activities and then share with the group. These responses are written in their words without edit. The following responses are from the students who range in ages from 14-21. The students are asked to reflect on the following question: How do you think this activity could help you in your daily life (In School, Out of School, or In Your Career)? Who am I? : How to open up to people. Get to know others. Think before you bully. Helps you get what you want. / You can do anything if you out your mind to it. Feeling you can pass any class. Standing up for people. Have less violence. Creative Storytelling: We learned what citizenship actually means. You can help your peers. You learn to help others. You will live. It helps shapes your character. / To tell the truth. When you tell the truth people trust your opinion. You tell the truth about what you see. Through the Hoops: Don’t be afraid to trust people. You need to be able to trust your teachers and friends to complete an assignment or task. You can rely on friends to stand up with you. You can trust your parents to be there for you if not financially then emotionally. / We learned how to trust people and how to communicate with one another. You need to communicate to get through your troubles at school. It taught us to stick up to help someone. You can’t always do everything by yourself, sometimes you need a hand to lean on. Reflective Take Away Assignment: .Knowing who you are and what positive people motivate you. You walk around with confidence and not caring what others think. Forms you into your own leader instead of a follower. You will live life knowing your purpose. / Sharing is caring. We shared to people and saw how much they cared. Some people feel like no one cares. You can tell people private things and realize they care or someone and break open or release emotions.
Mirror Work: Look at Yourself in the eyes (ONLY) and tell yourself that you love or like yourself just the way you are. As long as I know who I am it doesn’t matter what others think of me. / This makes me feel confident in myself. / It makes me feel good about myself but I keep to myself. / It made me feel good, like there’s nothing wrong with me. / I feel nothing. I don’t feel anything when I look at my reflection. / It made me feel confident and felt like with my high esteem. I can accomplish anything. / I felt amazing because I am amazing. I also felt powerful super legit. / It makes me feel confident in myself, like I don’t have to worry about what the people around me are saying and all I need to know is I’m beautiful. Hero: Who is Your Hero and Why do you think are they important? What characteristics or qualities, would you or do you, look for in a Hero? My mom and my dad because they showed me that it doesn’t matter about the past and that their future together is what mattered. Makes me feel like love is true. Love is still real. / The person is my mom. She is my role model. She teaches right from wrong. She is important because she’s there for me. / My hero is my dad. Because he’s been there for me and my mom but the first couple of years he was put away a couple of times but he’s changed moved us from all the gang and never left. / My older sister because everything I’ve seen her struggle she still gets back up. / My hero is my son and daughter. They are the ones I look up to, to keep me going in life they motivate me to do good with my life. A person who motivates you, a person who is caring and loving. / They have to have respect and have to be kind but not too kind and have to have loyalty and know what they’re doing in life. / My mom. She’s a very strong and caring person. When anyone needs help she’s always willing to be there for people. Every bad situation she’s been in she’s came out stronger. Kind, caring, respectful. / My hero is my mom. My mom is my hero because she saved me from committing suicide, she saved me from the hardcore drugs. My mom save me. I honestly love myself now. I have good grades now and amazing hobbies and coping skills. My mom saved me from my dark side and the world and death. A person that saves people in every way possible. / Malcolm X. Malcom X is important to me b/c of how he had so much spirit when he preached. He encouraged the African-American community to have more pride for their heritage. Leadership, courage, committed, and to never give up. Seeing Beyond: 3rd Eye trust it. When you use your third eye in writing you can be more descriptive about what you write. Use your third eye and make it happen. / What the third eye is. The mind set work in art because you have to use your imagination and take risks. It would help your dreams come true. Drawing one’s Fear’s, Hopes and Dreams and Sharing: Everyone has fears and dreams. You are able to accomplish your goals through fear. Both the victims and bully have fears. Don’t let your fears stop you. / Everyone has their own unique dreams. Everybody is different but all have similar fears. Don’t walk away when someone is in need. Just to follow your dreams, so work hard and take each step you need to get these. Reflective Take Away Assignment: To always go with your gut. Studying for a test and not pushing it aside. / Listen to you gut and feelings. Your more trust worthy with yourself. Makes you do better life choices. Give an example of when you did listen to your Intuition or Inner Voice. What was the result of listening and following that Intuition? What can you learn from this situation? When I had my daughter, and her father kept saying he was going to come to the hospital to see her. The excuses he was coming up with I knew he was lying. I still thought he was going to show up, even though my intuition kept feeling like he wasn’t going to. My intuition was right! I learned to never rely on people that you get a bad feeling about. I now learned not to get your hopes up by over thinking about something that hasn’t happened yet. / When I thought about going to the park with my friends. But something told me not to. They got caught smoking weed. Go with your gut. 98.9% of the time you’re right. / I decided to make a bad decision even though I was going to say no and in the end I was jumped be a friend that set up everything and my tooth came out. Not to let people pressure you into things you know are wrong and shouldn’t do
Funded By: Genesis City– Discover U Summer Camp Dates: June 20-23rd, 2016 Location: Genesis Academy %Male 40 %Female 60
Ages 14-21
Do you think others (Kids my age, older & younger, Adults) have the same Fear as I do? Pre %YES 70 %NO 20 %Other 10 Post %YES 100 %NO 0 %Other 0 Thoughts Shared: I’m in the middle because I’m scared of the dark and little kids are also scared of the dark. Rate this statement: I believe I can make my hopes and/or dreams come true. Pre % Not at all 10 % Sometimes 70 % All the Time 20 Post % Not at all 0 % Sometimes 40 % All the Time 60 Thoughts Shared: Everything is possible. Rate this statement: I respect my own decisions even when dealing with peer pressure. Pre % Not at all 0 % Sometimes 60 % All the Time 40 Post % Not at all 0 % Sometimes 60 % All the Time 40 Thoughts Shared: It depends on what it is. Complete this statement: I am trustworthy and I see myself as a __. Follower, Equal, Leader Pre % Follower 10 % Equal 60 % Leader 30 Post % Follower 40 % Equal 40 % Leader 20 Thoughts Shared: I’m Legit. Rate this statement: I feel like I can Relax and Breathe. Pre % Not at all 20 % Sometimes 40 % All the Time 40 Post % Not at all 0 % Sometimes 40 % All the Time 60 Rate this statement: Have you ever thought about nutrition, Can it make you feel good and help you in your future? Pre % Not at all 20 % Sometimes 50 % All the Time 30 Post % Not at all 0 % Sometimes 60 % All the Time 40 Rate this statement: Do you think making healthy food choices can help you achieve your dreams? Pre % Not at all 20 % Sometimes 30 % All the Time 50 Post % Not at all 0 % Sometimes 80 % All the Time 20 Do you like how you feel after you exercise? Pre % Yes 80 % No 0 % Other 20 Post % Yes 100 % No 0 % Other 0 Thoughts Shared: Yes, I really do. / It makes me feel good. Have you ever been bullied? % Yes 70 % No 30 % No Answer 0 Have you ever seen someone being bullied? % Yes 80 % No 20 % No Answer 0 Did you do anything? % Yes 60 % No 20 % No Answer 20 Will you use your new knowledge about healthy food to make better food choices? Post % Yes 100 % No 0 Thoughts Shared: It helps me know which type of food is healthy to eat / I will start eating breakfast / I know a lot more.
Did you learn something in the workshop that will help you deal with bullying? Post % Yes 100 % No 0 Thoughts Shared: If you see something wrong you have to stand up to them / It has taught me to let someone know when someone is being bullied / I won’t allow no one to bully me or allow someone else to be bullied / I’ve all the way known to help people. After attending the character education workshop and learning about compassion, if you saw someone be bullied, would you do something? Post % Yes 80 % No 20 Thoughts Shared: Because if that was me they’d help me. / I would stop them. / Because I mostly always have./ I wouldn’t be able to because of my social anxiety/ I will defend people more /Hell yea I would, I hate bullies. What do you think about color? What % gave more thought and shared them about color. Pre 70% Post 100% Thoughts Shared: Pre: I think color…No I never thought about color. / I think colors represent feelings/emotions, they bring out certain vibes and energy. / Colors are beautiful. Makes me feel happy. / Every color is different and unique and will make you feel or think in a certain way. / Marron, beautiful. / I think colors are beautiful and they make everything better. I also believe it changes the way people think or feel. / Don’t know. / I really never think about it / Blue / It’s ok, not really bothered by it / I believe everyone is equal and can’t control the color of their skin so they shouldn’t be judged because of it. Post: Blue / It doesn’t matter the colors because all colors are everywhere around us. / It exciting bright, it’s fun to put color down on something / Color helps me to express / Color can explain your thoughts, feelings. My most important hope or dream is. . . What % gave more thought to their Dreams becoming reality. Pre 90% Post 100% Thoughts Shared: Pre: My most important dream to achieve is to make my future family happy and make my mom happy. / My most important hope or dream is to be where I need to be at in life so my kids can have a good life. / Graduate on time / My dream is to get out of the ghetto and finish college. Also have my mom to never work again. / Don’t have one. / I work at a body shop / 2013 Shelby GT 500. / To make it to the NBA / I want to become a doctor. Post: I want to help my mom / To be a better soul for my kids to look up to / Owning my three cars and my own body shop / I hope that one day I will be able to speak to others / Become a nurse. One thing I learned in workshop that will help me reach my dream is: Post 100% discovered something new in the workshop. Thoughts Shared: Finish school / Never to give up or let anything get in my way / You will have to wanting it if you want to reach them / I learned to work with others / Even through struggles, keep going, It’s only temporary. What did you learn New in the workshop about yourself that you did not know before? Post 100% discovered something new in the workshop. Thoughts Shared: I am as good as everyone else / To be proud of who I am and to have more confidence in myself / I got closer with friends / I learned that I try new things / You’re not alone.
2016 DISCOVER U STAFF/PARTNERS & SUPPLIES Camp Coordinator Graduate Student Research Intern Nutritionist Fitness Specialist Yoga Instructor Camp Facilitator/Arts Specialist/Instructor Co-Facilitator Travel Mileage Lunch & Healthy snacks & supplies Pending Gift from FRYs Pre Prep work for Food Administrative Support PRE AND POST Evaluations Preparation Work & Design 2 Nutrition games Design/ Assembly and Delivery Final Report Certificates and Camp Recognitions Documentation Testing supplies ) Camp Journals Camp T-Shirts Camp Water Bottles Sunglasses- Character Ed. Bracelets Art Supplies Camp Visual Nutritionist game and general supplies Total
PER CAMP 540 160 400 400 300 1,200.00 160.00 60 400 200 375 150 200 100 60 45 185 315 200 60 80 60 5,650.00
ACTUALS 540 160 400 400 480 1,200.00 160.00 30 200 $200.00 375 150 200 100 60 45 185 215 100 60 80 60 5,800.00
Discover U Summer Camp 2016 - Yoga, Nutrition & Fitness Heather Promise Ricciardi, MLSt., E-RYT 500 Yoga Specialist for Discover U Summer Camp 2016 E D, Sustenance Research Institute
Heather Promise Ricciardi is a perpetual scholar whose commitment to yoga is the guiding force in her personal, professional, and academic pursuits. Her dedication to yoga has spanned the last 16-years, and she has been teaching for ten of those years. Heather has earned an E-RYT500® credential with Yoga Alliance and has experience teaching to diverse and special populations. She teaches Hatha yoga, primarily, but is well versed in a variety of yogic traditions and styles. Heather graduated with honors from Arizona State University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in the field of Psychology and in 2011 she earned a Master of Liberal Studies, again at ASU, with concentrations in Gender, Religion, and Culture. Today, she is a social entrepreneur, contributing to the sustainability movement by spearheading the development of a research model based on yoga-related case studies that she produced during her university career. And, as the current Exec. Director of Sustenance Research Institute, Heather is committed to the mission of promoting sustainability at the most local levels through science and education. When she grows up, she plans to be an astronaut.
Day 1 Breath is to the Mind what Exercise is to the Body Overview: Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System; Sympathetic (fight or flight) and Parasympathetic (relaxation) Nervous Response 1:1 Ratio Breath Technique (performed seated or standing): Begin to count to “4” with each in-breath. Count also to “4” on each out-breath. Let the breaths in and out be balanced and easy. Do not hurry. Do not worry. You cannot do it wrong. (Continue for about 2 minutes) Now let go of this technique, close your eyes, and just see how you feel. * Cues the parasympathetic nervous response (relaxation response). * Balances respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. Inhale = receiving/accepting Exhale = giving/letting go Mountain (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel and arms by the sides, try to be as tall as possible and, at the same time, as relaxed as possible. The eyes are soft as you practice. (Continue for 2-5 minutes) * Basic meditation technique and introduction to mindfulness. Invite the participants to visualize the qualities of their mountain. * Cues the parasympathetic nervous response (relaxation response).
Gate (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, reach the right arm overhead and lean over to the left. Take a few breaths here before returning to a standing position. Repeat on the second side. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the ribcage and back body. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. Deep Squats (performed standing): Open the distance between the feet (18-24 inches) and turn the toes out a bit. Cross the arms over the chest and hold onto opposite shoulders. Breathe out as you descend into your deepest squat. Breathe in as you rise again to standing. Repeat * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream.
Threading the Shoulders (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, cross the arms in front of the chest, right on top of left, winding the elbows and wrists together as much as possible. Using 1:1 ratio breath technique, lift the elbows up and down to stretch the muscles between the shoulder blades. Move dynamically with the breath for about a minute and then switch sides (left on top of right). * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the arms and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. Final Relaxation: Reclined Supine Position Meditation: “Waterfall�
INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING YOUTH WITH THE TOOLS TO MAKE BETTER LIFE CHOICES...
Day 2 Mind and Body are all you will every really have. Overview: Benefits of Awareness and Introspection Alternate Nostril Breath Technique (performed seated): Begin by taking a few slow, deep breaths. Close off the right nostril with the thumb and breath easily through the left nostril. Release the thumb, close off the left nostril with the ring finger and pinky, and let the breath travel out the right nostril. Keep the left nostril closed. Breathe easily through the right nostril. Release the fingers, but close off the right nostril with the thumb and let the breath travel out the left side. Alternate breathing through one side and then the other for a few minutes. Release the technique and close the eyes. Breathe freely through both nostrils. * Cues the parasympathetic nervous response (relaxation response). * Balances respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind, and balances the hemispheres of the brain. OM: Yoga of the voice. * Conditions vocal chords. * Reduces self-consciousness and increases self-confidence. * Creates spontaneous mental clarity. Partner Stretch (performed standing): Facing your partner, hold your partner's right wrist. Pretend to sit down (like in chair pose). Let the head hang down and feel a nice stretch through the arm and back of the body. After a few breaths, switch arms and do the second side. When you have finished, thank your partner. * Invites the kids to work together as a team. * Increases spacial awareness, balance, and self-confidence. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the legs, and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. Tree (performed standing): Standing on the right foot only, place the sole of the left foot on the inside of the right calf. Extend both arms up toward the sky. Continue to practice 1:1 ratio breath technique. (Hold the position for a few breaths). Switch standing legs and repeat on the second side. * Increases special awareness and balance. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back. Forest (performed standing): Gather the whole class into a large circle, elbow to elbow and palm to palm. Standing on the right foot only, place the sole of the left foot on the inside of the right calf. (Hold the position for a few breaths). Switch standing legs and repeat on the second side. Smile and enjoy. * Invites the kids to work together as a team. * Increases special awareness and balance. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back.
Final Relaxation: Reclined Supine Position Meditation: “I am not my body”
Day 3 All fears are related to the fear of death, either directly or indirectly. Overview: Anger is the result of unresolved fears and blame is an attempt to discharge that energy. Lion’s Breath: Touch the tip of the tongue to the back of the lower row of teeth. On an exhale, roar/hiss loudly like a lion or tiger and make the corresponding facial expression. * Conditions vocal chords. * Reduces self-consciousness and increases self-confidence. * Creates spontaneous mental clarity.
Backbend (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, place both hand on the sacrum for support. Lift the eyes to the ceiling. Lift the chest to the ceiling. Bend back as far as you can without holding the breath. * Increases special awareness, balance, and self-confidence. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. Warrior (performed standing): Step forward with the right foot. Bend the right knee and lift both arms into the air. Look forward with great concentration, like a warrior. Hold the feet in position and breathe out as you fold forward sweeping the arms behind you. Breathe in as you rise again with the arms into the original warrior position. Move dynamically for several breaths, then switch feet (left foot in front) and repeat the same action. * Increases special awareness, balance, and self-confidence. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind.
INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING YOUTH WITH THE TOOLS TO MAKE BETTER LIFE CHOICES.
Chair (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, feel both feet connected to the Earth. Extend the arms above the head and sit back as if into a chair. Keep the head lifted and light. Breathe deeply for a few breaths and return to standing. * Increases special awareness, balance, and self-confidence. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream.
Forward Fold (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, bend over at the waist and let the arms dangle in front of you. Shift and sway in any way that feels good. Breath calmly and allow the weight of the body to draw you forward. * Cues the parasympathetic nervous response (relaxation response). * Releases toxins and aids in digestion. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. Final Relaxation: Reclined Supine Position Meditation: “What is holding you back?” (3 stairs)
Day 4 Fire up your Solar Plexus: the “Little Brain” Every nerve runs through the solar plexus. It is the seat of willpower, knowledge, and strength at many levels. Belly-Belly Technique (performed seated or standing): Pull the bellybutton back quickly as you breathe out through the nose. Let it go. Then, try again. Pull the bellybutton back quickly as you exhale through the nose. Let it go. Now, repeat this action a few times in a row. The in-breath happens without thinking. Add the arm position: Make a fist, but stretch the thumbs out. Extend the arms into the sky (shape of a “Y”) and begin Breath of Fire. (Continue breath of fire for 20-30 seconds) Let all the breath out. Then breathe a big breath in and hook the thumbs together over your head. Hold the in-breath until you are ready to let it go and release your arms to your sides slowly. Close the eyes and relax. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the abdomen. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream. Twists (performed seated or standing): Holding your shoulders with your hands, breathe out as you turn to the right. Breathe in as you come back to the middle. Breathe out as you turn to the left. Breathe in as you come back to the middle again. Repeat this action several times slowly and thoughtfully. Close the eyes and relax. * Cues the parasympathetic nervous response (relaxation response). * Releases toxins and aids in digestion. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind.
Winner (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, reach the arms into the air as if to touch the sky. Smile! Feel tall, but remain fully relaxed and confident. Sense a feeling of accomplishment, receptivity, and happiness. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. * Stretches and strengthens the muscles of the arms and back. * Increases the volume of respiration and oxygenates the bloodstream.
Standing Twist (performed standing): Step forward with the right foot. Bring the left hand to rest on the right shin as you twist open to the right and extend the right arm toward the sky. Take a few breaths here. Return to Mountain pose and close the eyes. Step forward with the left foot and repeat the same action on the second side. * Cues the parasympathetic nervous response (relaxation response). * Releases toxins and aids in digestion. * Increases attentiveness and presence of mind. Forward Fold (performed standing): Standing with feet parallel, bend over at the waist and let the arms dangle in front of you. Shift and sway in any way that feels good. Breath calmly and allow the weight of the body to draw you forward. Final Relaxation: Reclined Supine Position Meditation: “Hovering Numbers”
RESULTS: Participants in the 2016 Discover U Summer Camp Yoga Program were encouraged to move toward more sustainable means of communication, self-confidence, social competence, and spatial awareness through the practice of yoga. The 2016 Discover U Summer Camp Yoga curriculum was designed specifically to introduce children to the concepts of awareness, sustainability, and effective thinking; and to give them the tools to positively navigate an ever-shifting society. By allowing them a safe space for self-expression and epistemological exploration, the children had an opportunity to define their personal goals and dreams. Then, working with themes like “teamwork”, “self-respect”, and “breathing to focus”, the children were exposed to new ideas that opened up their concepts of self. And by identifying and addressing their physical, mental, and emotional needs, the children were able to establish personal values as well as the human values that inspire them to reach their goals, both short term and life-long. At the very least, participants gained a deeper understanding of their bodies and minds. At best, the children took away a set of skills that will give them a distinct advantage in their journeys toward the bright future.
Dr. Sonya Bladow, DC LN | Nutrition, Chiropractic | Discover U Camp 2016 Nutrition Specialist Overview Day One: The outline of day one, was for the kids to understand what food is made up of and where it comes from. We discussed the purpose of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. We had the kids divide into teams and played a game focused on how many calories were in a food item and how long it would take them to burn it off. The kids learned about what calories are and how we are what we eat. The nutrition that we put into our bodies, affects our bodies, and helps us perform. We also came up with healthier alternatives to commonly consumed fast food items. The kids were asked to write down any questions they may have pertaining to nutrition, and as the week goes on we will answer those questions. After the nutrition lesson, the kids ate a Chicken Tortilla Soup along with fruits and veggies. Observations: The kids really enjoyed the game today. They were shocked at what is in the fast foods that they commonly eat and how long it would take for them to burn those calories off. The older kids will use this information, when cooking and eating on their own. They are also empowered to choose healthier options when eating out. For example, staying away from extra sugar, such as soda and stick with water. Day Two: The purpose of today’s lesson was widening their horizons and tasting new foods, to what is commonly eaten. Also what it looks like to cook and eat a health, well balanced diet. When tasting each food or drink we discussed why the foods benefited the body. We also looked at foods that we could substitute, such as almond milk, and nut butters. As a group, the kids got the recipe of the day, put them into their journals and made their lunch. This day the kids had a BLT wrap with avocado, along with fruit and Greek yogurt. Observations: The kids were very excited about sampling foods today. They enjoyed seeing new foods, trying the foods, and coming up with new/healthy foods to eat. They liked the hands-on experience and liked asking questions. The older kids had more questions and wanted to know where they could buy the stuff. The younger kids weren’t as concerned about the nutrition facts. They seemed to have more questions with the discussion and passing of the foods today. Many kids seemed to be visual learners and like the recipes printed, so that they could keep them and eat the foods again. Day Three: The third day was learning about food labels and reading the nutritional facts. They all got examples of food labels and went over the important information on them. Then they played a game where they had to match a food to what body part it benefited. We went through a lot of the questions the kids wrote out from day one. The recipes were passed out and the kids ate home-made pizza pockets with veggies and dip. Observation: During the question and answering, several kids wanted to learn what made them overweight, which led into the discussion of eating well, moving well and thinking well to be healthy. We talked a lot about sugar and diabetes. Also that it took eating an extra 3100 calories a day to gain 1lb of fat. I felt the girls were more interested in this topic than the boys. The kids asked several questions this day about what kinds of foods are good. They also learned what foods could build up their immune system, which foods can make them stronger, and what foods break us down and start the aging process quicker.
Day Four: We got the kids back into teams and played three games of nutrition ‘MANGO’ (BINGO with nutrition questions). The questions centered around fruits, vegetables, healthy calories/fats/proteins/carbohydrates, and vitamins/minerals. For each question and answer, we’d have a quick discussion on that topic. We handed out recipes for healthy snack ideas to put into their journals and ate lunch; a chopped chicken salad. Observations: The kids had a hard time with some of the questions, so I would give hints to the kids to get the answers. Again this discussion brought out that many kids did not eat or know what some of the fruits and vegetables were. They loved this game and participated well! We talked again about diabetes and the importance of healthy fats in our diet. The kids had a lot of energy the last day and this was a great day to get discussions going. MANGO was a fun game for the kids. The kids liked the recipes for snacks and wished that they got to eat all the snacks. Overall Impact: The main goal was to empower the kids to choose healthier foods. And to realize that cooking and eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming endeavor. The kids enjoyed the activities that pertained to them and how they normally eat. When the learning was done with interactive games, the kids got a lot more out of the lessons verses just educating. I felt the kids enjoyed the most, the second day, of trying, seeing and tasting new foods. I feel if I taught again, I would focus on the kids trying more new healthy foods. It was great to see some of the kids try and love the new foods. Of course there were always a few kids that wouldn’t even try the foods, but I felt that was to be expected. This year I felt it was important that we picked healthy, accessible, and within a budget food items for the lunches. Since many kids were asking where they could get specific foods, I’m imagining they are planning on eating these healthy foods in the future. I changed some of the recipes, from the prior year, so that the foods were more kid friendly. Along with the main dish, we also provided most days some fruit and veggies as well. We wanted to make sure the kids got enough food, didn’t leave hungry, while watching the portion sizes. Foods such as, canned beans, nut butters, and quinoa were great for the girls to try and easy sources of protein to keep on hand. It was evident that the older kids had more questions and were more involved, as compared to the younger kids. But it was great to see the younger kids being more open to new foods. I was also happy to see the kids asking questions about how to stay healthy and not becoming overweight. This lead into some great discussions on diabetes and how to prevent getting sick. I encouraged the kids either keep their recipes or show them to their parents so that the parents can also come become aware of the food choices they are giving their kids. Healthy parents equate to healthy kids because they learn by example. The last observation I had this year was I became more aware of the different learning style of each kid; visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. With my lesson plan already established this year, it was easier for me to cater to each kid and help them learn according to their styles.
RELEASE THE FEAR, INC. 302 WEST MONROE, PHOENIX, AZ - WWW.RELEASETHEFEAR.ORG
INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING YOUTH WITH THE TOOLS TO MAKE BETTER LIFE CHOICES.
Rachelle Phillips Discover U Camp 2016 Nutritionist In-turn working under Dr. Sonya Bladow Overview Arizona State University, College of Health Solutions
My name is Rachelle Phillips and I am getting my Bachelor’s Degree in Dietetics (Nutrition) at Arizona State University. I am going on my last year, and I will be graduating in the spring of 2017 with not only a major in Dietetics, but a minor in Global Health, and a certificate in Food System Sustainability too. I hope to graduate from Arizona State University and acquire a Dietetic Internship so that I can become a Registered Dietitian. My ultimate dream is to provide nutrition education to serve as preventative knowledge so others can avoid sickness and to also work in addressing food security issues. In the middle of summer of 2016, I got back from an ASU study abroad trip that consisted of 6 credits studying culture, health, and environment for 4 weeks in New Zealand. I was chosen for this trip to receive credits towards my Global Health minor. In New Zealand I had the opportunity to collaborate on transdisciplinary, multi-year, multisited, team-based research in order to examine local ecological knowledge of environmental justice issues around rivers in New Zealand—having completed CITI ethics training and certification to work with human subjects beforehand. I also had the opportunity to collect and reflect on data of how the environment affects obesogenics. After returning from this study abroad excursion, I had the opportunity to become involved as an intern for Release the Fear. Release the Fear ties into my future goals of providing preventative care through nutrition education, and through this camp internship I can help inform the participants firsthand with what can positively impact their future health. While in New Zealand, a meaningful lesson that I have kept close to my heart was that the environment truly does impact an individual’s eating habits and overall well-being. This is why it is so important to reach out in any way possible and inform anyone and everyone of the importance of mindful dietary choices. Release the Fear is a wonderful project that I am so thrilled to be a part of. Thank you for this opportunity.
To Release the Fear Supporters,Release the Fear’s Discover U camps came with life-long, valuable lessons that the participants took away. The following lessons for each camp stood out the most to me: Discover U Genesis City Academy: June 20th - 23rd 2016 The students at Genesis City Academy were the smallest of the camps in numbers, but they were mighty in the knowledge that they gained. Firstly, when it came to food tasting, several of the students had never tasted any of the foods, but by the end of the camp they were diving into each serving. They were very active in tasting the quinoa, almond milk, hummus, coconut milk, almond butter, kale chips, agave syrup, sea salt, and the whole grain bread samples. Many even asked for seconds. This showed an interest for future consumption, whether it be through their own grocery list purchases or their parents. The students also learned how to read nutritional labels, that the list of ingredients on the back of a food item isn’t the best option if lengthy and the first ingredient is sugar, and gained the understanding of how to read the number of serving sizes that each food product has—which can lead to unknowledgeable, high caloric consumption if ignored. These students have dreams of higher education, and this life-long nutritional knowledge will follow them in this journey too. Their openness to try new foods and gain nutritional knowledge accompanies this belief. Self-reflection: While I have discussed each camp and what the participants took away, I would like to share what I took away from participating as a nutritional intern for Release the Fear’s Discover U camps, as well. Before beginning this camp I had experience in speaking in front of crowds, but I wasn’t used to thinking on my toes as much as these kids soon prepared me for with their sporadic questions: “How long does it take to burn off 1 hot dog?,” or “What is the perfect example of an unhealthy meal?” I not only was able to adapt more to thinking quickly for these types of questions, but I was able to develop more confidence in myself, as the number of participants for each camp grew. My future desire is to nutritionally help those of low income and find ways to better secure them food. This internship has helped me not only strengthen my skills of adaptability in new environments, but it has helped me gain even more empathetic understanding of the different situations and struggles that each individual has along their journey to a healthy life. For that I am very humbled and thankful for. Thank you.
La Mar Hinton Executive Director of Training & Certification, Quality Control -AmenZone Fitness ONE LIFE, ONE TIRE, ONE MOVEMENT
AmenZone Fitness/ AmenZone Foundation uses proprietary primal training as a platform to improve selfesteem. Our program teachers our member and youth how to exercise without using weights and machines, but rather with whatever is readily available to them in their own environment. Program members learn different exercises they can use to remain active while at home, in their own backyard or even while at school. Members are encouraged to create their own games and/or competitions such as relays races and team building games. They are further taught how to initiate and participate in discussions with their peers and their parents regarding healthy lifestyle choices and the resulting benefits.
RELEASE THE FEAR, INC. 302 WEST MONROE, PHOENIX, AZ - WWW.RELEASETHEFEAR.ORG
Thank you Genesis City Academy for opportunity to bring Release the Fear's Discover U Summer Camp to your incredible group of students. For your understanding that each and every child is deserving to be inspired and empower with the tools to make better healthy life choices. Today because of your support,, they are that much closer to finding their gifts that they have to share with the world around them. Most sincerely,
Robert J Miley CEO and Founder
Office- 302 W. Monroe- in Downtown Phoenix Mailing-332 W. Lynwood Phoenix, AZ 85003 info@release the fear.org www.releasethefear.org