5 Stress Relieving Tips For Teachers
It is a widely recognized fact that teaching is one of the most stressful professions
. Teaching can be an intensely rewarding, and intensely challenging career path.
In order to be the best teacher that you can possibly be, you need to find ways to keep stress levels low.
So what is stress?
Stress is simply your body's way of protecting you in difficult or challenging situations and ensuring peak performance. Too much stress can impact negatively on your effectiveness in the workplace, your relationships, your emotions, your overall enjoyment of life and even your health.
Symptoms of stress can include headache, irritability, anxiety, overeating and sleep problems. More severe signs of stress include high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, depression and even heart disease.
So how can I reduce my stress levels?
1. Create a Sanctuary
After spending a hectic day in the classroom, answering hundreds of questions and dealing with a plethora of dilemmas, it is often difficult to switch off at the end of the school day. One way to ensure you are not continuing to stress about your day is to create a time and space at home intended to relax and calm. Create a sanctuary at home by lighting scented candles or incense with calming properties, for example lavender and sandalwood - aromatherapy oil burners can create a relaxing atmosphere instantly. Play peaceful and beautiful music to inspire your soul. Work with your hands, tending to indoor herbs or knitting - any simple and relaxing activity. Pour a glass of red wine; drinking one glass a day reduces many health risks. Or, if you prefer, prepare herbal tea, such as green tea or chamomile tea.
2. Meditate
If thoughts of the school day interrupt your sanctuary time and intrude on your delegated relaxation space, you must be firm. Use meditation to force your body and mind to relax. Play a guided meditation CD or simply focus on closing your eyes and repeating a key phrase, such as 'I am calm, I am peaceful'.
3. Learn to delegate and prioritize
Teachers tend to be givers. Teaching is a helpful and caring profession and many teachers drawn to this profession tend to be less effective at delegating responsibility or prioritizing. As a teacher, if you suffer from stress, you must learn to let people know when your need more time for a task, or if in fact you are unable to complete a task within the time frame given. Learn to say no, or to delegate and share responsibilities. The following phrases may help:
"I can't right now, but if we could plan a meeting time next week I would be happy to help you"
"Today I am very busy but I could do that by..."
"No, I'm sorry"
Make a 'To Do' list and order in terms of importance. For example, divide professional tasks and activities in to 'MUST DO', 'SHOULD DO' AND 'MIGHT DO'.
4. Support Networks
Socialize with workmates and network often. As well as leading to more harmonious and happy working relationships, networking can lead to acquiring resources, supplies, tips, support and advice. Sometimes stress may become unmanageable and lead to depression. Seek advice and support from a professional immediately if this happens.
5. Healthy Living
The most obvious strategy can often be the hardest to follow. Research has consistently proven that exercise and healthy eating reduce stress levels. Gentle exercise is best for stress relief, for example walking, jogging and yoga. Exercise increases endorphin levels, lowers blood pressure and increases feelings of wellbeing.
by: Jennifer Dobson
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