Getting Rest During the Summer
6 ideas to support and encourage rest and reinvigoration
After months of early mornings, lesson planning, grading and supporting your students, it can be hard to shake the feeling that you should always be doing something productive. However, days off are a chance to recharge, and taking that time for yourself can help you return to the classroom feeling energized, focused and ready for a new school year.
Here’s are six ideas to support your rest and rejuvenation.
Give yourself permission to truly switch off
Several high-quality studies suggest that stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression and widespread among teachers. You can't control everything that causes these things, but summer is a chance to step away.
It's important to give yourself permission to fully disconnect from work for a while. Let your planner stay in the drawer, keep your school bag out of sight and mute school-related notifications. It's okay to sleep until your body naturally wakes up, enjoy a slow morning in your pajamas and politely decline school requests that can wait until later.
Taking care of yourself is an essential part of being, and staying, a great teacher. A well-rested mind is one of the best things you can bring back to your classroom.
Plan a vacation that leaves you feeling rested
Go on a vacation if you can, even if it's only a long weekend. A vacation is an effective way to recharge because it gives you a chance to step away from your usual routine.
You don't need a packed itinerary to make the most of it, either. Some of the most relaxing trips include leisurely breakfasts, quiet afternoons, unhurried walks and plenty of free time to simply enjoy where you are.
If you're traveling with friends or family, set up a shared group budget before you leave so everyone contributes to meals and other shared costs up front. It keeps finances simple and helps everyone relax. If you’re traveling solo, embrace the flexibility. Follow your own schedule, linger at your favorite cafe or spend an afternoon exploring wherever your curiosity takes you.
Reset your daily routine
An easy way to figure out how to rest during the summer is by refreshing the habits that typically get pushed aside during the busy school year. This doesn't mean overhauling your lifestyle, but a few small changes can help you feel more rested and make the transition back to school much more enjoyable.
Start by assessing your sleeping schedule. Your body relies on sleep to recover, repair and function at its best. Summer gives you the perfect opportunity to catch up on quality rest and settle into a consistent sleep schedule before classes resume.
From there, build simple habits that help you feel your best. You might start your morning with a nourishing breakfast, keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day and spend a little time outdoors. Even a walk around the neighborhood or coffee on the patio is helpful. Those everyday choices can help you feel refreshed before summer comes to an end.
Try one thing you’ve always said "I don't have time for"
Pick one hobby or activity you’ve been curious about and enjoy the experience for what it is. For example:
- Read a book for fun
- Learn a new recipe or bake something you've never tried before
- Start a small vegetable or flower garden
- Paint, draw or try another creative hobby
- Try photography, knitting, pottery or another hands-on craft
- Begin learning a musical instrument or pick up one you haven’t played in years
Keep your expectations light and let yourself enjoy the process. Spending your time on these personal interests can help you reconnect with the hobbies and passions that often take a back seat during the school year.
Turn your home into a mini spa
A relaxing afternoon at home can leave you feeling refreshed, and creating your own spa experience is easier than you might think.
Run a bath with warm water and a bath bomb. Or, try Epsom salts, commonly used to soothe tired muscles, relieve dry skin and encourage relaxation. Light a few candles, play calming music and enjoy a face mask while you soak.
Once you’re finished, keep the relaxing atmosphere going with a nourishing hair mask, a manicure or pedicure and your favorite body lotion. For an extra touch, make cucumber and mint-infused water or brew a cup of herbal tea before curling up with a good book.
Recharge with a friend, or two, or three...
Spending time with the people you love is good for your mental health. Studies reveal that close adult friendships are linked to better mental well-being and can even help protect against depression and anxiety, so keep your friends close even during the school year.
The school year has a habit of filling every spare moment, so get-togethers tend to slip down the priority list. Now’s a great time to bring them back. Consider inviting friends over to a barbecue, grabbing coffee at your local cafe, packing a picnic or organizing a board game night.
You could also start a simple tradition, like Saturday morning farmers market trips or weekly evening walks around the neighborhood. The activity doesn't matter as much as the company.
Relaxation. No homework required.
As the new school year gets closer, don’t look back and wish you’d rested more. Take a few simple steps to feel recharged and well-rested and bring a refreshed version of you to your classroom this fall.
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