Rest and Recharge this Summer: Prioritising Your Self-Care

As we approach the summer season, it’s important to take a step back and prioritise our mental and physical well-being. Teachers and lecturers play a crucial role in shaping the future generations, however, it can be easy to forget to take care of yourself amongst the demands of the job. That’s why we are sharing some self-care tips that you can follow over the summer break. By prioritising rest, reviewing boundaries and building healthy habits for the year ahead, you can recharge and replenish yourselves in preparation for the academic year.

1.       Prioritise Rest:

Rest is essential for recharging our bodies and minds. It’s important for you to schedule in some downtime, whether that’s a simple walk to get out and about, catching up on some reading or enjoying a hobby that brings you joy! Another helpful technique is to create a wellbeing action plan, which can include setting realistic goals for rest and self-care. By tracking activities and setting self-care targets, it will be easier to hold yourself accountable. Remember, self-care is not selfish, it is selfless.

2.       Reviewing Boundaries:

Setting boundaries is essential in creating a healthy work-life balance. Over the summer break, it’s important to set boundaries with work. Set specific times when you will work and stick to them. For example, if you work on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week, only work during these times. You can also use automated email responses to communicate with anyone who may be trying to contact you outside of your scheduled working hours. Additionally, try deleting work email apps from your phone. With emails easily accessible on our phones, it can be tempting to check them outside of working hours, which can lead to added stress.

3.       Build Healthy Habits for the Academic Year:

The academic year can be demanding and stressful. Building healthy habits over the summer can help you prepare for the year ahead and manage stress. What are your wellbeing non-negotiables? Consider activities such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and practicing mindfulness. Start your day off well with a routine that helps you feel energised and sets you up for a productive day ahead. Additionally, consider doing a weekly wellbeing check-in, where you can reflect on areas of improvement, set goals, and practice gratitude. Prioritising these habits can help educators better manage stress and feel more fulfilled in their work.

4.       Focus on Being You:

Over the summer break, it’s important to do things that make you feel like ‘you’. It can be easy to lose sight of our passions and hobbies amidst the demands of work. Spend time doing activities that bring joy and fulfilment. Plan a trip, take a class or simply catch up with old friends. Activities like these can help educators rejuvenate and remember the importance of taking time for yourself.

5.       Connect with others:

Social connections play a vital role in our overall wellbeing. This summer, take time to connect with loved ones, colleagues or join a community group or club that interests you. You could also consider connecting with other teachers and lecturers and sharing your self-care plans. This can provide support and accountability during the academic year and serve as a reminder to prioritise self-care when things get busy.

It’s important to prioritise rest and self-care over the summer break in order to recharge and replenish. By focusing on rest, reviewing boundaries, building healthy habits for the academic year, and indulging in activities that bring joy, teachers and lecturers can better manage stress and feel more fulfilled in their work.