In Tune with Music

DESCRIPTION:

This activity aims to apply stress management through a combination of music and physical exercise. Students will need to respond with the appropriate physical intensity to the different rhythms presented, taking them from a state of physical stress to a state of calm.

OUTCOMES:

• Help children release stress through physical activity and music. Promote coordination between movement and musical creation.
• Raise awareness about the importance of regulating physical intensity, starting slowly and gradually returning to calm.

DURATION: 45 min.

MATERIALS:

• Sports field or gymnasium. Speakers.
• Sports equipment. Examples of songs:
• Relaxing songs: "Hallelujah" - Jeff Buckley / "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.
• Upbeat songs: "Happy" - Pharrell Williams / "I Gotta Feeling" - The Black Eyed Peas

SKILLS RELATED:

• Coordination between movement and music. Stress reduction.
• Physical activity.

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Step 1: Gather the children in an outdoor area or gym. Create a circuit and explain that they will be participating in a rhythmic race. In groups of fewer than 10 students.
• Step 2: Begin by playing a melody with reduced intensity that, at certain points, intensifies. The students should run around the circuit to the rhythm of the melody, moving slower and calmly when the music calls for it or increasing their pace when required. They can run while dribbling balls if they wish.
• Step 3: Next, play faster rhythms that encourage maximum intensity running. Step 4: After the physical stress, play a quieter song that leads the children to gradually return to a state of calm.
• Step 5: Finally, when they appear to have recovered, conclude the activity and reflect on the importance of rhythm changes and the impact of music in managing different situations like physical stress or everyday situations.

TIPS:

• Carefully choose musical tracks for each situation.
• Encourage the children to be creative and expressive with the music and to move to the rhythm that inspires them.
• Emphasize that this activity is a fun and effective way to release stress.

REFLECTION:

• How did you feel while running to the rhythm of the music? How did it help you release stress?
• What type of music would you listen to when you want to relieve stress? Why do you think it's important to take time to return to a state of calm after intense physical exercise? Do you think this example can be applied to other everyday situations?