Settling Practices for Unsettling Times
Leadership starts in the nervous system.
In this experiential session, Trystan Reese and Jonathan Boland introduce the Grounded Leadership framework—a science-based approach to cultivating steadiness, emotional regulation, and presence through nervous system training.
Rather than focusing on what to do in the moment of stress, participants will learn how to build the foundation for calm leadership before high-stakes moments arise. Like learning to swim in the shallow end before diving into deep water, the session offers guided, accessible ways to strengthen the body’s natural regulation systems over time.
Together, participants will assess their own breathing patterns to identify how well they currently engage their diaphragm, practice progressive muscle relaxation, and learn how consistent daily work can dramatically reduce reactivity under stress.
This one-hour session blends neuroscience, psychology, and practical exercises, leaving participants with clear insights and concrete tools to strengthen their leadership from the inside out.
Learning Outcomes / Skills Participants Will Gain
After this session, participants will be able to:
- Understand how the nervous system influences leadership behaviors, decision-making, and communication.
- Assess their own physiological regulation patterns (including breath and tension awareness).
- Practice two foundational nervous system training tools—diaphragmatic breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
- Develop a personal routine for nervous system conditioning to improve emotional steadiness and reduce reactivity over time.
- Apply these body-based awareness practices to foster resilience, empathy, and psychological safety in their teams.
Program Details
Registration Details
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Online registration available until February 11th.
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Early bird registration until February 6th.
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Registration is available for our partner organizations.
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No refunds or credits for future events given after that time.
CPTD Recertification Credit
CPTDs earn one recertification point/credit for each physical hour of continuing education within one’s current role/job or involving a new experience or content. You will need to keep records of the event and prepare any required paperwork. Visit the CPTD webpage for complete information.
The Chapter estimates 1.5 recertification hours for this workshop.
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HRCI and SHRM Recertification Credit
This program may be eligible for self-certification for HRCI and SHRM recertification credits. You will need to keep records of the event and prepare any required paperwork. Visit the HRCI recertification webpage or the SHRM recertification webpage for more information.
Presenter Bios
Trystan Reese (he/him)
Trystan Reese is an author, educator, and founder of Collaborate Consulting, a Portland-based firm specializing in belonging and adaptation. With more than 15 years of experience in training and organizational development, he helps leaders and teams communicate across difference, navigate stress, and build workplaces where everyone belongs. Trystan is a certified Brené Brown Dare to Lead™ facilitator and a Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI).
Jonathan Boland, LCSW, MPH (he/him)
Jonathan Boland is a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and leadership coach with expertise in trauma, resilience, and emotional intelligence. He combines his backgrounds in psychology, social work, and public health to help leaders cultivate calm, clarity, and compassion under pressure. Jonathan’s professional experience spans the military, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors, where he has supported executives, managers, and front-line teams to lead with presence and purpose.
Capability Model Focus Areas - Emotional Intelligence & Decision-Making, Coaching Collaboration & Leadership, Performance Improvement, Cultural Awareness & Inclusion
