Practice What You Teach: 5 Simple Self-Care Practices for Teachers

Do you know the proverb, practice what you preach? Teachers should practice what they teach. As elementary educators, we often find ourselves in a position where we are expected to not only educate our students academically, but also to help them develop social and emotional skills such as self-regulation and mindfulness. However, in order to effectively teach these skills to our young students, it is important that we practice self-care ourselves.

Self-care can take on many different forms and can be different for each individual. Here are five things that you can do during school hours to take care of yourself.

1. Practice mindfulness

Take a few minutes to sit quietly and focus on your breath. You can do this at the beginning or end of the day, or during a break if you need to reset. There are many apps and online resources available that can guide you through mindfulness exercises.

You can simply sit quietly and focus on your breath for a few minutes at your desk during transitions between activities or during moments of stress.

Model this technique for the class when you or the students feel anxious.

2. Incorporate movement into the day

Getting your body moving can be a great way to relieve stress and improve your overall well-being. Instead of sitting on the sideline at recess, play kickball with your students, or challenge them to a jump rope competition, or walk around the playground with a fellow teacher.

Incorporate movement breaks into the daily routine. These can be short breaks where you and your students stand up, stretch, and move around the room. You can also lead some fun physical activities like dancing, yoga, or simple exercises.

3. Connect with colleagues

Building strong relationships with colleagues can help create a supportive and positive work environment. Take a few minutes during breaks or lunch to connect with your colleagues, share a laugh, and engage in conversation that is not work-related. 

Showcase funny memes or jokes on a bulletin board in the teachers’ lounge that anyone can add to.

4. Create a calming environment

You can create a calm and soothing environment in your classroom by using calming colors, playing soft music, or using aromatherapy like essential oils. This can help both you and your students feel more relaxed and centered.

When students are loud, whisper directions to them saying, “If you can hear my voice, clap once.” A few students will respond. Then whisper, “If you can hear me, clap twice.” More will respond. Keep it going, adding a clap as you go. Once you have everyone’s attention, let them know that three claps isn’t bad, but next time you’d like everyone to respond at one clap. This will encourage the class to stay calm and quiet so they can hear you next time.

5. Practice gratitude

Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things and people you’re grateful for at school. This can be as simple as jotting down three things you’re thankful for in a journal.

Share something you’re grateful for with a colleague or friend. 

Incorporate it into your classroom by encouraging students to share what they are grateful for, too. Click this link to download a free Gratitude Journal.

In conclusion, By practicing self-care, we can improve our own well-being and model healthy habits for our students. It can also create a more positive and supportive environment.

Remember, taking care of ourselves is not selfish – it’s necessary in order to be the best educators we can be.