Seminar: Indian Country School Counselors Institute Professional Development Program
Program: ICSCI
Subject Area: Counseling
Grade Level: 6th
Year of Publication: 2024
Abstract
In understanding the power of generational trauma within Hopi history, the Second Mesa community carries much burden from past experiences. Traumatic encounters with forced religion and forced education still linger in the behavioral dynamics of children. Forced language removal is still felt as efforts are made to revitalize Hopi lavayi (language) in the hearts of students. The in depth study of emotional regulation in healing trauma makes it clear that teaching and practicing intentional breathing with children through the context of “hikwsi” at school can systematically benefit the community.
Hopi has long understood the power of breath within the context of ceremony and now it is time to bridge that understanding into daily exercises for students. Students can learn how to strengthen the muscles of parasympathetic activation, through simple breathing exercises that reinforce their Hopi identity. Hopi art symbols and language can be used to bring breath to life, as each student inevitably faces stress in their life. Students can learn to rely on their Hopi identity for strength and safety because the culture has perspectives to help overcome life’s obstacles.