The pandemic is wearing on everyone, and teachers and school administrators are no exception. With nationwide school staffing shortages, absences, and additional tasks necessitated by the pandemic, teachers and other school staff are stretched very thin right now. It's gotten so bad that yesterday they asked me- the girl who once took the basketball, ran in the wrong direction, and missed a layup in the opposing team's basket- to teach P.E.! I suggested to staff at my school that we all share with one another our tips for staying sane. Here are some of them.
Humor!
* Ms. Jaleh uses humor when times get tough.
Take a Break!
* Ms. Rachel recommends taking a true lunch break and getting out of your classroom.
Music!
* Ms. Jaleh listens to playlists that include beloved hits from the ’80s! She mentioned a study showing that for those who have positive associations with 80's music, the music induces the release of endorphins in the brain, making you feel happy and calm.
Dance Parties!
* Ms. Carrie, Ms. Ruby, and Ms. Jane hold dance parties in the office!
Tap into Creativity
* Mr. Jeremy relaxes by making art, including a cool necklace he wears.
* Ms. Ruby relaxes by crocheting blankets.
* I have just started to make time to play my banjo and sing, and I plan to play my violin.
Laugh, Think Positive Thoughts, and Keep Going!
* Ms. Jane says, "Rainbows and unicorns, butterflies and bunnies!
Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swim swim swim swim swim."
Yoga
* Ms. Rachel goes to Sunday yoga in Balboa Park, held outdoors on 6th and Laurel and by donation.
Meditation
* Ms. Raquel says that what has helped her juggle many things throughout her day is to take 5 minutes to meditate. She shared this link to help others on their journey to starting meditating: https://youtu.be/
Probably the only real solution to the stressors caused by the pandemic is a change in the situation we are all in, but maybe these tips will help us smile as we muddle through it!
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