In this introductory module we offer some reframing as to ‘what a tic is’ to reduce the worry and panic often found in parents (and thus your kids). We also introduce the different ‘bodies’ (mental, physical, emotional) so that we begin to create a new language that we’ll use throughout the program. This begins our reorientation of our child back to their body because kids who tic are usually somewhat disembodied (mind) and overwhelmed with the sensations and feelings in their body. The practises in this module begin our journey of relaxation and connection.

By learning the language of our body we can regulate our nervous system. We do this so that parents and kids alike can start noticing which direction they are moving towards in day to day life (i.e. opening/relaxation, or stress/closing.) This module closes with a variety of short, fun and applicable practises that will be used at home to encourage the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system in as many moments as possible this week.

In this module you and your child will learn - thru practise - how to notice and experience different ways of breathing. We’re doing this to build up an awareness of our body; it’s anatomy, and to get comfortable with new sensations in guided gentle presence. Our breath is our anchor to the body, and in a world so easily distracted, we must learn where the breath is in order for your child to find safety in connection to their body. This week's practise focuses on building a ‘map’ of the body through a body scan, whilst inviting the sensations of opening, releasing, letting go etc. Other exercises focus on sensory awareness.

Fundamental to this program is the integration and stimulation of the oldest part of our brain - we do this through movement. In the intersection of brain, brain stem, and nervous system we find primitive movements 'saved' for basic mammalian safety. Past down generations, these movements - if they're not integrated into the higher order and evolved areas of the brain - can cause an energetic block, or 'stuck' energy channels. By reenacting these movements regularly we strength the foundations of the brain. All higher order functions of movement are then improved. These movement exercises are simple, non-invasive, and easily done at home.

Diet can play a critical role in the recovery of the condition. We want to reduce the stress caused inside your child's system in all ways possible incl. food, toxins, and any intolerances they might be living with. This module includes practical advice to address concerns and common questions in the realm of food, diet, supplements, screen-time and more etc.

A ticcing body will concentrate a high density of the metal element, mind. This is especially true for kids and teens that game. To balance the physical symptoms, we must learn to move in a balanced way - in union with all the elements. In this module we invite you and your child to move and to make sounds with the different elements, water-feeling-emotion, firey-anger, airy-fairy-light-silliness, grounded-earthy-rumbles and more. This creates a playful acceptance of the body and offers new wiring to create space for the tight and stuck ticcing movements. By doing this together you learn to give them full permission to feel and express what exists in their body without any subtle judgements that you have about your self! If your child watches you be silly, then their body will feel more free. This is all about team-work, and being playful together.

Our western culture promotes and celebrates the mind, but forgets our connection to the 'earthly' body. A ticcing body is crying out for our attention. By grounding we are energetically pulling our attention back down and out of the mind and into the body. This supports - scientifically - a host of benefits incl. stress reduction, a boosted immune system, enhanced mode, better sleep, reduced inflammation to name a few. In this module I guide you how to do it correctly, so that your child's body can feel safe again. 

Behind every ticcing movement there is an emotion (or an energy wanting to express itself). In this module we learn the fundamentals of emotional awareness; how to feel, notice, sense, and talk about what’s going on. We do this without the need to ‘fix’ anything about the emotions other than to create space to feel them so that they can move… and ultimately dissolve away. The videos also bring acceptance of feelings because many kids (and parents alike) have learned that it is inappropriate to feel certain emotions, so we unconsciously end up suppressing them. Suppression leads to dis-ease. A Ticcing body is sometimes like a shaken-up and tightly held bottle ready to burst! So much energy - but it doesn't know where to go! 

As a sensitive child the world can be overwhelming, to the point where their body is so scared that it moves by itself. Most people with tics wouldn't admit that, but if their body is safe it would not be moving by itself. Safety can be found in creating space away from others, or in co-regulation with others. In this module we teach our children how to say no to touch, and how to ask for touch. This is an empowering and slow guided practise for kids and parents of all ages that promotes a healthy, regulated, safe and secure nervous system.

Our final module focuses on the benefits and practise of mindfulness in every day life. These brain-based scentific-backed practices are for further supporting the reduction of anxiety and stress for everyone, especially parents! Because remember, your child isn't going to heal in silo. They need your help. Not just thru your words and guidance, but by living in a healthier and more regulated manner. 

Plus, an additional tailored module specific to Vocal Tics. (The full program is for vocal and motor, however, there are additional practises we can do to support children/teens with vocal tics only.)