Finding Peace and Relaxation in School Holidays
Teachers, principals, support staff and anyone else working at a school, the school holidays have just started which means you also get somewhat a break from the Monday to Friday grind,
Teaching is profoundly rewarding but can also be incredibly demanding. So it is important to make the most of the school holidays for well-deserved relaxation. There are many ways you can relax in the two week break from taking a small vacation, day trips and relaxing at home.
– Begin the break by completely disconnecting from work. Turn off email notifications, set aside lesson plans, and resist the urge to check in on school-related matters. Creating a clear boundary between work and personal time is essential during your holiday.
– Embrace mindfulness practices to reduce stress and stay grounded in the present moment. Activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can calm your mind and alleviate the mental strain often associated with teaching.
– School holidays offer the perfect opportunity to rediscover your passions and explore hobbies that may have taken a backseat during the busy school year. Whether it’s painting, gardening, reading, or playing a musical instrument, engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. You may have a project at home you have been meaning to achieve but just haven’t had the time.
– Travelling, whether to a distant destination or exploring your local area, can provide a refreshing change of scenery. Travel allows you to unwind, experience new cultures, and gain a broader perspective. It’s important to get away whether that is from your city or your country.
– Spend quality time with loved ones. School holidays are an excellent time to reconnect with family and friends. Quality time spent with loved ones can be immensely fulfilling and help you relax and recharge emotionally.
– Consider taking a break from technology, including social media, during your holiday. Disconnecting from screens allows you to be fully present in the moment, fostering a deeper sense of relaxation.
– Use this time to reflect on your teaching practices, accomplishments, and areas of growth. Set intentions for the upcoming school term, but remember to balance your professional goals with self-care. Make sure you set a reasonable time frame for setting up your classroom and learning for the term ahead. Don’t spend half of your break planning back in the classroom, put aside a day or two.
School holidays are your opportunity to prioritise self-care and relaxation. By disconnecting from work, practising mindfulness, pursuing hobbies, travelling, spending time with loved ones, unplugging from technology, and setting intentions, you can return to your teaching role refreshed, inspired, and ready to make a positive impact on your students’ lives. Remember, taking care of yourself allows you to be the best educator you can be. Enjoy your well-deserved break!
