Following all the hard work and dedication to their pupils during term time, summer should be a time for teachers to unwind and spend time with their families and friends. But as we know only too well, the work of teachers is never done and stepping away from work mode is never easy given the preoccupations of preparing lesson plans and thinking ahead to the start of the new school year. In this article, and with the advice of some teaching professionals, we bring you some effective top tips to help teachers to recharge during the summer.
Given their total focus on the wellbeing of their children, the holidays ought to provide teachers with some precious time for themselves. It’s about turning their attention to themselves and doing the things that make them happy without having to worry about work. Whether that be spending more time with family or pursuing the hobby or course that they have forever been putting off, the long summer break provides a golden opportunity to recalibrate and regroup. Not least because they need to unwind given the pressures and full-on nature of the job.
Reconnect with nature
Spending time outdoors is a proven way to help lift moods and alleviate stress. This can take many different forms, from a gentle stroll in a local park or along a river to longer, more vigorous hikes and trails with stunning scenery as part of a programmed break away from home. The key is to be in touch with the elements, as there’s nothing quite like it that feeds the soul. As Emily Fry, Assistant Partnership Manager stresses, “My tip would be to try and spend time every day outside, being in the fresh air, possibly doing a short walk or bike ride can be quite peaceful too!”
Take up gardening (or visit garden centres)
Gardening is another firm favourite, an activity known to boost mental health. And for those who don’t have gardens themselves, there are many different ways to get involved, for example local volunteering projects, which also bring you into contact with new people. There are plenty of local garden centres or wild botanic gardens around the UK but even indoor plants or access to a balcony can make a big difference! Joseph Rusted, a former primary teacher reminds us of a particularly sweet bonus, “Going to garden centres is always fun, particularly if it ended with a coffee or cake at the end!”
Rise to the challenge
Doing something that they haven’t been able to fit into their busy school schedules is so important for teachers during the holidays. There is something very powerful and invigorating when you put yourself first, especially for teachers who are so used to putting the welfare of others above their own. Whether booking that painting course, learning a language or musical instrument, whatever it is you’ve really wanted to do, don’t dally! “My tip would be to challenge themselves to do something that they always wanted to do but have put it off,” says former secondary teacher, Pindi Sembhi.
Do nothing!
Yes, why not take a leaf out of the habits of our European friends? The chilled Dutch for example have a concept of ‘niksen’ or doing nothing while the Danes value ‘hygge’, that warm, cosy atmosphere with loved ones. Either way, there’s absolutely nothing wrong in having days in which you have nothing planned, to just wake up and go with the flow, wherever it takes you. It makes for a welcome change from our regimented lives in which almost every hour of every day is mapped out. Gaining back control is not only very liberating but also has incredible benefits for mental wellbeing.
Be mindful
For those who struggle to switch off, then take this advice from former teacher and lecturer Ciara Starr and “dedicate time at the beginning of the holidays, i.e. the first week, to get any admin bits done so it feels as though it’s completed in ‘normal working time’ before your actual holiday time kicks in”. This will help you then look forward to spending time with your friends and family without feeling guilty. Whatever approach you take, make sure you focus on a “mindfulness activity like colouring, reading a book or puzzles,” which worked for Senior Partnership Executive Jade Alford.
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