The world has gotten very good at teaching people how to regulate themselves and their nervous system. Which is fine and a start, but I think we also need to teach people how to understand themselves and how their minds work. Those are not the same skill, and most people are only ever given the regulate or calm down part. Here's the distinction worth thinking about: 1. Regulation calms the moment, but understanding changes the pattern. You need both, but only one will actually prevent the next mental spiral. 2. Ask what a feeling is trying to tell you before you try to fix it. Understanding starts with curiosity, not correction. 3. Track your patterns, not just your episodes. Understanding is built over weeks of noticing certain things about yourself. One moment is not enough. If that distinction is new to you, drop a heart below. #spencerperformanceinstitute #LAUSD #schoolsystem #anxietyhelp