Looking for ways to practice self care for educators? You’ve come to the right place! Check out these ways to make the most of your holiday break and return to your classroom feeling both rested and fulfilled.
Rest and Recharge
One of the most popular (and most important!) ways to take care of yourself during the holiday break is to catch up on some much needed sleep! Prioritize getting a full eight hours if you can, or focus on resting or napping periodically throughout the break if your body has trouble breaking from your school week routine. Already getting your eight hours a night? Good job! Keep up the good work by resting in other ways, like meditating, light stretching, or simply lounging and listening to some mellow music.
Make the Most of Personal Time
As an educator, so much of what you do is for the benefit of others. This holiday season, take some time to enjoy your own company. You might choose to work on a personal project, pick up a new hobby, read that book you’ve been meaning to start, or even create a vision board for all you’d like to accomplish in the new year. Or, you might even enjoy some peace and quiet with a steamy mug of cocoa. The world is your oyster!
Pamper Yourself
Did somebody say “spa day?” Pampering yourself doesn’t have to break the bank, especially around the holidays. Move your favorite candle to the bathroom counter and soak in a hot bath. Use the ingredients already in your pantry to make a DIY face mask to combat your skin concerns. Wrap up in your coziest blankets and watch that cheesy, feel-good holiday movie you’ve been seeing online. At the end of the day, the goal is to have done something that makes you smile.
Connect With Others
As a proud extrovert, my favorite part of the holidays is spending time with all the people I love. Whether it’s face-to-face or on a FaceTime call, this is the perfect time of year to touch base with connections, old and new. Plus, it’s been scientifically proven that spending time with those we love actually reduces stress! Looking for even more connection this holiday? Call around your community to see if there is a need for any last-minute volunteers for a chance to help your community.
Embrace the Holiday Season
Another (possibly surprising) way to take care of yourself this holiday is to lean into the spirit and get festive! Sure, this season is hectic. With so much hustle and bustle surrounding the end of the year, it can feel difficult to catch your breath. But, when you slow down and appreciate all the little things – from the way the lights glow in the chilly evening air to the nostalgia we feel when surrounded by loved ones – you’re taking care of yourself in so many ways.
How are you taking care of yourself this holiday?
Let us know your top tips on practicing self care for educators in the comments below. And, if I haven’t gotten the chance to tell you already, I hope your holiday brings you joy and laughter. See you next year!