It's that time of year again! Spring break is just around the corner, and teachers everywhere are getting ready for some much-needed rest and relaxation. If you're searching for some ideas on how to take care of yourself during spring break, you've come to the right place. From soaking in a hot tub, to taking a nature hike, or treating yourself to a Teacher Care Crate subscription, we've got plenty of tips to help you recharge and rejuvenate. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this roundup of spring break self-care ideas!
Connect with family and friends.
Spring break is the best time to spend quality time with your significant other, kids, or friends. It is time to take part in fun activities like traveling, hiking, or visiting a park, or maybe just catching up with your friends over coffee. Anything to bring you together with your family or friends, as it gives you joy to be around those you love. Spending time with those you love will do wonders for your mental health!
Accept productive laziness.
As a teacher, there may be things you have wanted to do throughout the year, but commitments like life and work have gotten in the way. The overwhelm of a backed-up to-do list can be daunting. Remember, doing nothing is ok too. Choose to set healthy boundaries over your break, and realize that is acceptable. You do not need to spend your entire break catching up on overdue tasks to be validated. Sometimes doing nothing is just as productive for your mental health.
Go on a stay-cation.
Teachers typically have a tight budget, and there may not be able to afford an elaborate travel plan during spring break. A staycation will help you significantly during the spring break. You can choose to explore your town, go for a day trip, or have an overnight stay at your favorite spa and maybe enjoy soaking in a hot tub. Other options that will not drain your pocket, include going for a nice dinner or walking in a quiet park.
There are free apps like Yelp and Groupon, which you can use to find new places or great local adventure suggestions!
Learn a new skill.
Spring break is the best time for you to be the student! You can sign up for a painting class to express your creativity, take a photography course, or a cooking class. Another good idea is to find a friend with whom you swap ideas/techniques. Spring break is the best time to learn a new skill, and it will be even better if the talent you know can be passed down to your students when you go back to school.
Practice meditation.
When you meditate, you can focus on a particular object, a thought, or an activity to achieve a peaceful state of mind. Meditation comes with numerous health benefits such as reducing stress, depression, and anxiety, improving your sleep, lowering your blood pressure, and promoting general emotional health. Take the time away from your classroom to find your inner zen.
Nurture yourself.
When you are in school, you are always typically concerned with the well-being of your students. Spring break is the ideal time for self-nurturing. You will uplift your mood when you indulge in small things you love! Book a massage or visit that nail salon you have been eyeing. Looking good and feeling good will uplift your mood. Maybe hit your local coffee shop to start reading that novel that has been sitting on your desk, and enjoy your favorite brew. Self-nurturing is an excellent way to take care of yourself during the spring break season.
Sleep in!
Spring break allows you to have time to rest your body and mind. You always wake up early to ensure you report to work on school days. Spring break is the best time to ensure that you catch up on that much needed relaxation. If you find it hard to sleep, you can listen to audiobooks, sounds of nature, or practice sleep meditation. You can also listen to calming apps or sleep stories. If the light gives you a hard time sleeping, you can try sleeping masks or black-out curtains. Put your mind at rest by lifting some of your cognitive thoughts. Clear your mind and get some rest.
Subscribe to self-care.
Teacher Care Crate is the best, monthly, teacher self-care subscription box, curated with the teacher in mind! It’s your reminder to practice self-care, and to take care of yourself -because teachers need rest, relaxation, and pampering too! If you are not already a subscriber, be sure to subscribe by March 14th, to get the 'Old School Vibes' Crate! Crates ship on the 15th of every month!
Conclusion
As teachers, you deserve the time and break to focus on other aspects of your life, which you may have pushed aside because of the demanding nature of your job. It is so important to recharge and 'refill your cup' before you return to school. You won't benefit your students, or yourself, if you go back to school with 'an empty cup'. Spring break is the best time to allocate to self-care, hobbies, family, friends, and rejuvenate your spirit. Try out the tips above, enjoy some YOU time, and you will be geared up for a wonderful spring break!