Happy Wellness Wednesday, Wellness Warriors!
I recall my struggles during the first few weeks of summer break when I was working full-time in a school. I would feel exhausted, finding it challenging to take the first step toward recharging my batteries. Being accustomed to a fast-paced lifestyle during the school year, the idea of resting often made me feel guilty. I had an extensive “summer to-do list” filled with all the things I couldn’t accomplish during the school year. This list included books I wanted to read, house projects, catching up with people, and enjoying the exciting summer activities Buffalo had to offer. Did you know we have a chicken wing festival in Buffalo every summer?
Recently, I’ve started to perceive rest as an activity that prepares me for what lies ahead, rather than a reward for past accomplishments. If you’re a teacher struggling with rest during the summer, here are a few types of rest you may want to explore. While physical rest is vital for allowing our bodies to recover and recharge, let’s think outside the box and delve into different forms of rest this summer. I encourage you to prioritize rest and include it on your daily to-do list!
Mental Rest: This involves giving your mind a break from cognitive activities and mental stimulation. It includes practices like meditation, mindfulness, or simply taking a break from demanding mental tasks. Mental rest can help reduce stress, improve focus, enhance creativity, and restore mental energy.
Social Rest: This refers to taking a break from social interactions and engagements. It entails creating personal space and time for yourself, away from social obligations, gatherings, or constant interaction. Social rest is particularly beneficial for introverts who find social interactions draining. It provides an opportunity for self-reflection and rejuvenation after spending a school year with students and colleagues.
Emotional Rest: Emotional rest focuses on giving yourself a break from emotional stressors and demands. It involves taking time to relax, unwind, and engage in activities that bring joy and emotional well-being. Emotional rest can include pursuing hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones, engaging in self-care practices, or seeking emotional support.
It’s important to recognize that these types of rest are interconnected, and achieving a balanced approach to rest is essential for overall well-being. We want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to all the teachers out there who deserve a summer of rest and restoration!
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