Roundtable Presentation 6th World Congress on Positive Psychology 2019

 'Walk Talk Savour' Coaching; Positive Education Powered By Neuroscience And A Highly Trained Dog. (#232)

Roz L Rimes 1 , Naomi L Hill 2
  1. Live with Zest, Lower Templestowe, VIC, Australia
  2. Naomi Hill Coaching, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Recent studies show that high teacher wellbeing has a significant positive effect on student academic outcomes.  One way to invest in wellbeing is through the practice of savouring. Savouring increases positive emotions, the capacity to focus, and stamina for learning (Bryant et al., 2011; Bryant & Veroff 2007).  The ‘Walk Talk Savour’ coaching practice takes an innovative approach to amplifying the benefits of savouring through interactions with highly trained dogs.  Interactions with these dogs can enable people to build important relationships with others.  There are neurobiological benefits that include reduced cortisol levels with associated decreases in physiological and psychological stress, and increases in serotonin and oxytocin production (Gee et al., 2015; Julius et al., 2013).  Dogs have shown to be psychological, social and physiological assets assisting in building resilience, helping us to feel good, function well and flourish. Qualitative research across a range of age groups, particularly high functioning cohorts, suggests that this model ‘has legs’! Further research using the EPOCH measurement is in progress.  In this session, Roz Rimes MAPP together with certified Australian Labradoodles Flash and Rafa will offer participants a savouring experience to learn how they can improve wellbeing through individual and small group coaching sessions.