We have a standard of professional excellence that most of us pursue as educators but with all of our education and training many of us do not master the complexities of stress management. According to a survey completed by teachers for the Gallop Report, “Forty-six percent of teachers report high daily stress, which compromises their health, sleep, quality of life, and teaching performance”. With extremely high stress levels and a struggle with work/life balance what should teachers do when life becomes just too much to bear? What happens when we are the brink of losing our composure? More importantly, how can we prevent it from happening?
This week’s challenge will provide 3 very basic stress management tips you can start today and hopefully will add some relief!
Walk Breathe Affirm
Walk- This week park your car in a different stall and take a longer walk to your class room. We all know the benefits of exercise and walking is the easiest forms with all the same benefits! Start small and build your way up to more as time and health permit.
Breathe- One key component to the mindfulness techniques I teach is deep breathing! When you walk try to inhale to the count of 8 hold for 4 counts then exhale for 8 then hold for 4 counts again. This very relaxing technique causes movement in the diaphragm and more oxygen to the brain.
Affirm- When feeling low repeat statements of affirmation to yourself.
- I am capable and equipped.
- I treat myself with kindness and respect.
- I am peaceful and calm, and greet the day with ease.
These are small baby steps in the right direction to prevent extremely high stress and over reactions. If you have quick stress management tips for teachers list them in the comments below! We love hearing from you!
Be kind to yourself,
Kecia