This model is based on the work of Professor Martin Seligman, the founder of Positive Psychology. SOARING stands for six empirically validated elements of wellbeing, which together describe a flourishing individual:
Strong Outcomes: setting, striving for and achieving one's own meaningful outcomes Activity: valuing physical health (e.g. through exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep) Relationships: nurturing the thriving connection with others (through social awareness and relationship skills) Interests: experiencing moments of complete engagement in interests (or 'being in the zone') Noticing positive emotions: developing self-awareness and the ability to both build on positive emotional experiences and be mindful (or 'still one's mind')
Giving: explore one's unique sense of meaning and purpose (e.g. through doing something to help others). The SOARING model of Positive Education (or simply, 'SOARING') is used school-wide with the Australian curriculum personal and social capabilities in John Paul College's approach to wellbeing. All students are familiarised with the SOARING Tree (pictured) as a simple yet effective way of engaging with the different elements of wellbeing. Just as a tree can grow from a seedling and soar to great heights, students are led to understand that their own wellbeing 'flourishes' through deliberate attention, nurturing, effort and time.
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