Self Care Extras
Follow what other high stress professions do...
As a profession, doctors recognize the need for self care in addressing the high stress level of their jobs. Self care includes "any intentional actions you take to care for your physical, mental and emotional health." As educators we need to take care of ourselves, and teachers can learn from doctors in working in a stressful occupation.
From the University of British Columbia Faculty Medicine:
Components of a self-care practice
There are many components to a self-care practice. Listed below are effective strategies to maintain self-care. Try choosing one from each area that you will deliberately work into your day.
Components of a self-care practice
There are many components to a self-care practice. Listed below are effective strategies to maintain self-care. Try choosing one from each area that you will deliberately work into your day.
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Physical self-care:
Eat regularly (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) Get regular medical care for prevention Get massages Dance, swim, walk, run, play sports, sing, or do some other physical activity that is fun for you Take vacations Wear clothes you like Get enough sleep |
Emotional self-care:
Spend time with others whose company you enjoy Stay in contact with important people in your life Give yourself affirmations, praise yourself Allow yourself to cry Play with children Identify comforting activities, objects, people, relationships, places and seek them out |
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Psychological self-care:
Make time for self-reflection Write in a journal Read literature that is unrelated to work Engage your intelligence in a new area, e.g.: go to an art museum, history exhibit, sports event, theatre Practice receiving from others Notice your inner experiences – listen to your thoughts, judgments, beliefs, attitudes and feelings Say “no” to extra responsibilities sometimes Workplace selfcare:
Take a break during the workday (e.g. to eat) Take time to chat with colleagues Make quiet time to complete tasks Have a peer support group Set limits with colleagues Identify projects or tasks that are exciting and rewarding Regularly consult with a mentor |
Spiritual self-care:
Spend time in nature Find a spiritual connection or community Cherish your optimism and hope Be aware of non material aspects of life Be open to not knowing Meditate Pray Sing Take in inspirational content (literature, talks, etc.) |