Yes, Teachers Need Self-Care Too!

Mindfulness is a fundamental aspect of teacher self-care.

When you’re aware of how you feel and what you need, you can better meet the needs of your students.

Knowing how to tune into your own needs can ensure that you remain calm and in power during times of stress. In turn, this can make you a more grounded and effective teacher, no matter what comes your way.

If you’re on the verge of burnout, taking steps towards improved self-care can work wonders for your personal and professional goals.

Here are four self-care areas you can prioritize and start implementing more often to get you back on track.

1. ENGAGE IN MINDFULNESS:  

Try out yoga or a guided meditation.

Both can help you focus your mind, unwind your body and reduce stress while building creativity, confidence and connection.

2. EAT HEALTHY and MOVE YOUR BODY:  

Making your lunch the night before or doing some meal planning on the weekend will ensure that you are ready each day with a meal that will keep you going throughout the day. Take time to step away from your work and enjoy your lunch.

Go outside, join a teammate in the staff lounge or if you must eat in your room, but be mindful that this is your time to regroup, relax and dial down. 

A healthy diet can help you stay energetic and engaged between meals, boost performance and improving feelings of self-worth and a sense of accomplishment. 

3. DRINK MORE WATER: 

I know this seems counterproductive given that teachers rarely get bathroom breaks, but the fact is drinking more water everyday will improve your mood and mental clarity.

Drink at least 1/2 your body weight in water every day.

You’ll thank me later😊

4. SET BOUNDRIES: 

One thing you can do to be more efficient, is to stop staying late at school.  Hear me out ...

Many teachers think more hours makes them more productive and better able to support their students, but it actually leads to burnout!

You are not at your best, for yourself or your students, when you are running on fumes.

In order to do your job to the best of your ability, you need to achieve a work-life balance that is fulfilling both personally and professionally.

5. CONNECTION: 

Surround yourself with positive people who inspire you and lift you up.

Take time to meet with a friend for coffee on the weekend, head out to a movie or go for a run together.

Surround yourself with people that lift you higher and support your growth. It is wonderful to have a tribe of friend where you can learn laugh and grow together. ❤️