For Our Valiant Teachers and School Staff: Value Yourselves
Karina Moore, Health and Human Sciences Educator – Purdue Extension
Teachers: as you know, teaching in the midst of a pandemic is not for the faint of heart. You, along with all support staff, are doing your best every single to day to ensure that the education of students continues. You dedicate much time to others and the community. Even before the pandemic you spent your days being continually “on” socially, emotionally, and physically. Being fully aware of all-things-COVID has only added an extra layer of anxiety, uncertainty, and concern for yourself, your family, and your students. This is true whether you are teaching in-person or virtually. It all takes a new level of effort, knowledge, and energy.
While you navigate these waters, please remember to value yourselves. That comes in the form of self-care. Quality self-care is vital for you right now. It’s not self-indulgence; it’s self-preservation. Self-care is not going to look the same for everyone. Know yourself. Know what makes you happy and brings you peace and joy. For some, that may be spending time with particular people. For others, it may be experiences or practices they do on a regular basis.
Not sure where to begin? Here’s a little guidance: think of taking part in things in the realms of physical activity, social and communal events, artistic opportunities, and spiritual/reflective time. If you love running, then run. If yoga is your happy place, make more time for it. Social distancing has posed some barriers, but consider taking advantage of arranging an online meeting with friends or family members just for fun. (No work-related conversations allowed!) Enjoy making art, listening to music, or join an online book club. Perhaps creating a daily gratitude list feels good to you. Take a walk in nature. Make your house smell beautiful and relaxing. None of these things require a lot of effort or money to implement.
What they do require is for you to set aside time for yourself in a way that feels meaningful. Not only are you worth it, but you truly need it. Don’t worry about doing things that are trendy – do the things you truly enjoy and that make you smile.
Throughout the month of September, you will see Saturday morning posts on our Facebook page (Purdue Extension – Orange County) that focus on Educator Wellness. Please be sure to read and interact with these posts, as well as share them with all of your educator friends and family members. Thank you, valiant teachers and staff, for all that you devote to students and families day in and day out.