Leading with Heart: Oneida Educators Review Brain Power Wellness’ Social Emotional Learning Practices
In partnership with the Oneida Nation, Brain Power Wellness has brought social-emotional learning practices to the educators and mentors who are on the front lines, driving real change. Below are Brain Power Wellness reviews in connection with the mindfulness company’s science-backed practices, exercises, and other curricular tools. These Brain Power Wellness reviews, a student and a teacher leader reveal how implementation of BPW’s offerings allows students to improve and enhance their capacity to build relationships, enhance emotional resilience, and achieve greater academic success.
Becca’s Brain Power Wellness Review: Finding Her Voice and Inspiring Others
Becca, a student who traveled to New York to participate in the BPW Advanced Student Leadership Training in July of 2024, was once reserved and hesitant to speak up, but has been steadily growing into a leader among her peers. Her journey from being quiet to becoming confident enough to lead SEL lessons has brought her a new sense of purpose and connection with her classmates. Notably, she attributes much of this growth to her participation in Brain Power Wellness exercises and activities. “I used to talk to only one person in my friend group,” she recalls. “Now I talk to about half the people in my whole class.”
As she continues to build self-confidence, Becca finds herself leading discussions with younger students—an experience she never thought she would have. At first, she was nervous, especially teaching eighth graders; but by pushing through her self-doubt, she discovered a calm assuredness within herself. “Now I am teaching,” she reflects. “It’s strange but empowering.”
These newfound leadership skills have helped Becca create deeper bonds within her community and inspire others to step outside their comfort zones. Her story illustrates how incorporating BPW’s SEL programs into the classroom positively impacts students in multiple ways-whether they are being guided by their teachers through the various exercises, activities, and challenges, or whether they are stepping into leadership roles and guiding their peers.
Maria’s Brain Power Wellness Review: Teaching Harmony Through Respect and Rhythm
For Maria, a BPW Certified Teacher Leader, teaching SEL is about creating a classroom environment that reflects the principles of respect, trust, and self-expression. As a music teacher, she uses rhythm and movement to teach her students the value of patience, empathy, and respect for one another. Her classroom is a safe haven where students are encouraged to express themselves without fear of judgment.
“I tell them, ‘We don’t laugh at each other here, we treat each other with respect,’” she says. With many of her students lacking strong male role models, Maria recognizes the importance of being a stable, compassionate presence for them. Her teaching approach blends music with life skills, keeping students focused and engaged through interactive games and rhythm exercises.
When conflicts arise, Maria utilizes Brain Power Wellness SEL practices to guide students through their emotions. “One time, a student was upset, so I had him do ten push-ups before we talked,” she recalls. “Afterward, he was able to discuss his emotions in a calmer state.” For Maria, SEL is about channeling emotions productively, which aids her students in navigating challenges with self-awareness and self-control.
Her advice to her students? “Don’t be afraid to be yourself, and don’t hold grudges. Holding onto anger only hurts you.” Maria leads by example, showing her students that kindness and forgiveness are essential for a fulfilling life.
Nurturing Growth and Connection in Education
Through their commitment to SEL, Becca, and Maria in addition to many other mentors, parents and administrators, are nurturing a culture of connection, and respect within their school communities and beyond. They embody the principles of SEL in their unique ways, offering themselves as role models who empathize with the challenges students face on a daily basis. They’re not just teaching lessons; they’re creating environments where students can experience acceptance, support, and a sense of belonging. In this way, they are providing these youths with the tools needed to succeed not only in school but in life itself.
As these Brain Power Wellness reviews demonstrate, SEL is not only a framework for students—it’s a journey. By modeling and leading with empathy and strength, these educators are fostering a community where everyone has the chance to grow, connect, and assume leadership roles with enhanced self confidence.
