Back to school is a busy time for educators and parents. And, if you’re like me and live both of these roles the busyness can sometimes feel overwhelming and anxious.
For educators this time is full of planning lessons, setting up classrooms, organizing schedules and getting our heads wrapped back around the busy pace of September.
For parents, it’s back to school shoppings, early wake-ups, and the promise of an upcoming routine.
September is a time of year that provides a reset – a chance to start again with the habits that help you feel healthy, productive and well in your life.
If this September you are thinking about pushing your reset button and starting to tackle this new school year differently, here are five great reminders that enhance everyday wellbeing:
- Sleep – The days have been beautiful, warm and long. We’ve taken the opportunity to play, stay up late and have fun all summer. However, for many of us (especially our children) our sleep habits have been compromised. Thomas Dekker quotes, “sleep is the golden chain that binds health and our bodies together.” Take the time to recharge by getting back into some healthy sleep habits.
- Breathe – Slow down. We live in a busy world where we all feel there is not enough time to get everything accomplished. We are so busy planning for the next ________ (lesson, meeting, meal, parent interview) we forgot about just being present with our lives. Stop, take a breath, and if you’re ready, try to focus on breathing for a whole minute. Simply slowing down allows you to be present in the moment you are in and nowhere else. There are mindfulness training workshops for teachers and parents– seek them out to create your own practice first, your classroom and children will follow.
- Practice gratitude – I like to start my day with an email or text that simply thanks a colleague or friend for the work and help they are offering in my daily life. By starting the day with a moment of gratitude I often notice (and am looking) for the positive around me all the time. Can you make this a morning habit in your life?
- Connect – make time for the relationships that matter. Meet with your mentor, go on a date with your partner, cuddle your child. Human beings are wired for connection. When we prioritize the important people in our lives it makes our brain happier and enhances our overall wellbeing.
- Disconnect – Go offline and spend time with yourself. Practice self-care that enhances your own personal wellbeing. As parents and educators we can’t continue to give from an empty vessel. Fuel yourself with self-care practices like yoga, a walk in the woods, a cup of tea, a good book.
These practices are valuable in keeping our own wellbeing strong in this back to school time. If you are an educator, I invite you to check out our upcoming AWEsome Wellbeing Educator retreat in Victoria in the end of September.
The AWE retreat will give you the rare opportunity to place wellbeing at the forefront of your life in a safe and welcoming place surrounded by other educators. It will provide an opportunity to recognize wellbeing as a priority in both your professional and personal development.
This invitation to all educators to attend this purposeful day of heart-centred nourishment and stillness.