Deactivation Tools to Survive the Apocalypse

Nervous system regulation for the freaked out. Practice trusting yourself and (hopefully) leave a little more centered and collected. A Community Co-Regulation Lab This is a 90-minute monthly lab where we get out of our heads and into our bodies. It’s not quite a workshop and it's definitely not yoga. Our first and most important starting point is that choosing is more important than doing. So you can participate, watch, or just sit and breathe. All of those count and no one is going to make you do anything. What actually happens: First we get on the same page about group agreements and how to interact with one another (consent, confidentiality, no fixing). The idea is that there won't be any surprises and everyone will know exactly what's expected. Then we do two practices: Somatic Axis is a movement exercise where you practice noticing what your body is telling you in real time ("movement exercise" means crossing the room, not interpretive dance and it's fully modifiable for any physical limitations). Sounds mysterious but it'll make more sense in person. Attention Turns are five minutes of undivided attention in pairs: you can speak, be silent, move around, write out your shopping list, cry. No one will try to make you feel better or give you feedback. When it's your turn it's an opportunity to choose however you want to use your time and make requests for what kind of attention you receive. And when it's your turn to just listen, it's an opportunity to not do any extra emotional labor or caretaking. You won't have to reassure or give feedback or nod meaningfully. The best part? It's an opportunity to negotiate interactions, be clear about your limits, and not do anything you don't want to do. People describe feeling relieved. The goal is to feel about 15% more settled. That’s it, that’s the whole thing. Simple and accessible but profound. First Sunday of every month | 2:00–3:30 PM 64 Main St., Centerbrook, CT Donation-based (suggested $15–$35). No one turned away. Same-day COVID testing required. Everyday clothes are fine. --------- Your facilitator is Amelia Lord. She’s been doing this work for 13+ years and her approach is practical, accessible, and based on the idea that we regulate best together. More at www.amelia-lord.com