We don’t need to tell you how demanding your job can be. Between grading, lesson-planning, and more than a little bit of crisis management, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So we decided to ask teachers how they practice self-care – Here are some of the top responses!
1. Make time for yourself
“I make sure I take time for ME! I rarely bring work home. I spend time with my husband. I make sure I spend time with great friends. I play with my four cats. Mental care is essential to being an effective teacher. ‘You cannot pour from an empty cup.’ I mentally refill, often.” Glenda D.
It’s important not to overextend yourself. There’s a lot of evidence showing that stress can lead to depression over time. Schedule some time with your family, or by yourself to unwind and recollect yourself. It can make a huge difference!
2. Remind yourself that you’re making a difference
“I have an envelope in my desk drawer. I keep notes from students, happy notes from parents, funny things students have drawn for me or in their sketchbooks. Items that remind me I am a good teacher, that I am there for a reason, and that no matter how hard I am on myself, I am reaching my students.” – Linda H.
We know teachers are heroes, that’s why we’re dedicated to supporting them. It’s important to remind yourself that you’re helping your students.
3. Get back to nature
“I take a walk and BREATHE. If it’s in the middle of the school day, I walk outside and get some fresh air even if it’s only for a moment. If it’s on the weekend or at night, I take a walk in nature.” – Cindy R.
Spending some time outside can be like hitting a reset button for your brain. Researchers at Stanford University found that taking a walk in nature could lead to a significantly lower risk of mental health issue. Take a walk, get some fresh air, and breathe in the world around you.
4. Talk it out
“I vent with my husband (who’s also a teacher) and then he reassures me that everything is going to be ok. I have happy thoughts for a better day and it works every time.” – Alma B.
You don’t have to do it alone. Telling a friend or loved one about your day can help you process it and relieve some of the stress too.
5. Exercise!
“I start three mornings a week working out, weights and good music. Three days a week I crank up the music and ride my stationary bike. The extra endorphins help me get ready for my kindergartners in the morning and help me sleep at night.” – Tina H.
Working out is a great emotional outlet! It doesn’t have to be intense or difficult, anything from a brisk walk to leisurely bike ride helps get those endorphins flowing. Even a 10-minute walk can boost your mood and increase productivity!
All these tips are from teachers like yourself. To read more, check out the comments on this Facebook post. While you’re there, give us a like to stay tuned for more news, updates, funding opportunities, and even contests with fun prizes!