Teaching can be rewarding, but as we all know, it’s also stressful. Between lesson plans, student needs, and personal responsibilities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why focusing on emotional health isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Let’s focus on 4 simple examples of emotional self care. These can help you find balance, manage stress, and feel better in and out of the classroom.
#1. Emotional Awareness
The first example of emotional self care is Emotional Awareness. This means that you understand your feelings and what causes them. It helps you respond to challenges instead of reacting without thinking. Knowing your emotions gives you more control and helps you handle tough situations calmly. This is especially useful in the classroom.
Emotional Awareness Activities
- Keep a Journal: Try our 30-Day Mood Tracker Journal. Write down how you’re feeling each day and what caused those emotions. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and learn what your triggers are.
- Use an Emotion Tracker: This Emotions Tracker can help you identify exactly what you’re feeling beyond just “happy” or “sad.”
- Practice Mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to breathe deeply and focus on the present. Apps like Headspace and Calm can guide you.
#2. Stress Management
The second example of emotional self care is Stress Management. Teachers and stress management go hand in hand. This example focuses on ways to handle daily pressures and avoid burnout. Too much stress can make you feel tired and frustrated. Managing it helps you stay focused and energized.
Stress Management Ideas
- Try Coloring or Doodling: This Sketch Your Calm Art Journal has over 50 calming prompts. It encourages you to explore art as a form of stress relief and self-expression.
- Stress Reset Bingo: Try our Stress Reset Bingo Challenge with your colleagues!
- Create a Relaxing Space: Set up a small area in your home or classroom with calming items like a candle or cozy chair. I love my table top water fountain! The sounds and colors are so relaxing. My students love it too.
#3: Building Emotional Resilience
Emotional Resilience means that you have the ability to bounce back after a hard day or week. This is another example of emotional self care. It’s about staying positive and moving forward. Resilience helps you handle the ups and downs of teaching without feeling defeated.
Ways to Practice Emotional Resilience
- Practice Gratitude: Write down three things you’re thankful for every day. This can improve your mood and perspective. Try this Gratitude Journal!
- Reframe Challenges: Instead of seeing problems as obstacles, view them as chances to learn.
- Surround Yourself with Positivity: Spend time with people who support and inspire you.
#4: Strengthening Relationships
The final example of emotional self care is to strengthen your relationships both inside and outside of the classroom. Strong connections with students, colleagues, and loved ones make you feel supported and reduce stress. Good relationships remind you that you’re not alone and give you emotional support when you need it most.
Fun Ways to Strengthen Relationships
- Set Boundaries: Protect your energy by saying no when you need to. This ensures you don’t overcommit.
- Do Small Acts of Kindness: Leave one of our positive affirmation shout out cards for a coworker or give a compliment to a student.
- Create Special Moments with Loved Ones: Whether it’s a weekly family dinner or a quick coffee break with a friend, these connections matter.
Conclusion
Emotional health for teachers is a necessity, not a luxury. By focusing on these four examples of emotional self care—emotional awareness, stress management, emotional resilience, and strengthening relationships—you can build a strong foundation for your well-being.
This February, try one of these emotional health activities each week. Remember, progress is more important than perfection. You deserve to feel balanced, energized, and fulfilled. Want to learn more ways to practic self care as an educator? Read:
Teacher Self-Care: 4 Habits to Stay Happy and Energized All Year
Ready to take action? Visit our Teachers Pay Teachers store for more emotional health resources. Don’t forget to share your journey with us on Facebook and Instagram! Let’s support each other in creating healthier, happier classrooms!
