Lea Waters AM, PhD

Psychologist, Author, Speaker, Researcher & Professorial Fellow @UniMelb, #StrengthBased strategies workplaces, schools, parents. Author of The #StrengthSwitch

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

A quiet corner can change everything.

This “Wellbeing Hut” at Trinity College in SA isn’t about stepping away from learning — it’s about supporting children to return ready, calm, and connected.

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Neuroscience suggests that some children’s brains aren’t equipped with the wiring required to make the transition from break time and the classroom without external support. That’s why engaging in emotional regulation techniques right after recess and lunch is so effective!

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Did you have a felt board as a kid?

Felt boards are not only for play but also as an intentional tool for emotional regulation, sensory overload, and overall wellbeing - @ThornhillParkPrimarySchool has one in their wellbeing room...btw did I mention I love horses 😍🐎

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

I've always loved horses - there's nothing better for my wellbeing than being around such beautiful and majestic creatures.

Deep thanks to the super kind @tinac_apollobay for letting me spend a moment with the gorgeous Lace...

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Strengths are for everyone!!! We all know teachers are superheroes in disguise - but have you ever thought about their strength superpowers?

Love the staff strengths images at @CoomeraAnglicanCollege

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Teachers and School leaders at Dandenong High School learning about the neuroscience of #belonging in our #visiblewellbeing workshops. It’s always energising to see collective laughter.

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

We love how schools make wellbeing visible - at @standrewschristiancollege Marina shares how the secondary school makes use of mentor time to prime students with their strengths for the day ahead!

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Shoutout to my wonderful colleague and friend, David Kolpak — author of Thriving Together

Lovely to reconnect at the National Education Summit. We’re incredibly proud to have brought our ideas into the world.

Here’s to sharing stories that help others thrive — together. 💬✨

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Spotted: Prof. Lea Waters making moves at the National Education Summit — and even landing a chance encounter with Mr. Monopoly himself!

🏘️💼 No community chest required to know that wellbeing and education are always a winning combination.

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Honoured to speak on the national stage at the National Education Summit!

One of my favourite moments? Seeing the entire room join in for a Brain Break Mini Moment 🧠✨

These are the moments that remind us how powerful a pause can be.

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

🖥️ LIVE tonight! Join Lea in this free webinar and dive into how we can experience growth - even when adversity strikes.

Register NOW - 21 August 6:30pm AEST
https://t.co/2QLINoaZEM

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Thanks to St Margaret's Berwick Grammar for inviting me to speak about the neuroscience of belonging and how feeling connected to others changes our brain chemistry.

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

I decided to go for a ‘savouring walk’ in my garden on the weekend. I noticed these beautiful flowers had come into bloom! I savored their colour, I felt their texture, I smelt their beautiful perfume, and I smiled as I thought about the moment I first planted them!

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

I’ve loved sharing the science behind Savouring over the last few weeks, so I thought I’d share my ‘Go-To Savouring List’ with you!

What’s on your savouring list?

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Relational Savouring involves telling your loved ones about the good things that happened in your day, or savouring good moments that have happened between you both, and has been found to increase the quality of your relationships.

Who will you share good news with this week?

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Shout out to David Kolpak! For sharing his expertise and wisdom on how to successfully embed wellbeing into schools!

If you are interested in learning ways to embed wellbeing practices in your community check out David's book here... https://t.co/HN0OVHJq4o

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

A little reminder that small moments of loss can lead to new beginnings! Although...I'm still a bit annoyed at Council for cutting down my favourite tree! haha 🌲♻️

#NewBeginnings #NatureMatters #UrbanForestry #SustainableLiving #NatureInTheCity #LocalNature #TreeHugger

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Savouring involves paying a moment or two of extra attention to the things that make us feel good each day...like swishing around wine to enhance the flavour! These small moments accumulate, building up our resilience and capacity to cope with stress throughout the day.

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

🌟ICYMI - Lea's last webinar looked at how to identify the real reasons behind those tough classroom behaviours.

This term Lea will shine a light on how to 'Bust Out from Burnout'!

Register below:
https://t.co/2QLINoaZEM

[Lea Waters AM, PhD @ProfLeaWaters]

Harnessing my inner 'Better Homes and Gardens fan girl' and revealing my BEFORE and AFTER driveway/side garden!

#HomeImprovement #GardenMakeover #BeforeAndAfter #DrivewayDesign #SideGarden #OutdoorLiving #LandscapingIdeas #DIYHomeProjects #HomeAndGarden