Taking Care of the Adults

Whether it’s the teachers, the staff, the parents or you let’s take a moment for self-care reminders.  “Should the cabin lose pressure oxygen masks will drop down from the overhead compartment.  Please place the mask over your own mouth and nose before assisting others”.

Why is it important to take care of yourself and remind other adults, who give so much to students each day, to take care of themselves?  Educators are nurturers and frequently put themselves last!  If self-care is a priority, adults have more the ability to be calm and thoughtful when others need attention.  The benefit of routines for self-care lead to more energy, a clear mind, less stress and the ability to support those around us.  During this time of social distancing, it is imperative that self-care be practiced as isolation can result in depression, frustration and even anger.  Think about it, none of us are connecting with people the way we did in early March.

How does self-care work? Here are a few simple practices for the adults during social distancing and empty brick and mortar classrooms:

  • Connect with other adults including colleagues, peers, friends and family through virtual chats, phone calls or other interactions which can be practiced within a safe distance. The use of TEAMS is a great platform to chat and see colleagues.  PLC meetings can begin with team members sharing recent grow (a practice or learning stretch) and/or glow (accomplishment/celebration) regarding instruction or a personal triumph.
  • Taking a moment for yourself at different times during the day. Make this a priority and treat yourself to time for reflection, meditation, a creative project, a bike ride or a walk.  Activities like this help refocus energy and help us let go of worries.
  • Break a sweat by engaging in a sport or activity which gets the heart pumping and the blood flowing. It may be easy to sit so try an activity that challenges you physically every day – run, dance, Zumba, surf, swim, play tennis, train for a triathlon, etc.
  • Get plenty of sleep. Schedules have changed.  However, that doesn’t mean routines need to be interrupted. Go to bed and get up at the same time you normally do as that will assure the sleep cycle your body needs.  Make good nutritional choices.  I read recently that people who work from home tend to grab the clothes they wore the day before to just be ‘comfy’.  After a good night’s sleep, it is wise to shower, eat breakfast and get prepared for the day ahead as if you were going to school or an important meeting!
  • With the complexity of changes in our work and our lives, there are new worries, concerns and pressures. Laughter is a great medicine when times are tough.  Take time to celebrate your profession, your talents and gifts.
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