Are you a teacher looking to de-stress in the midst of a pandemic? If yes, then this is the post for you! We could all use a little TLC to keep us going. Read on for the four secrets to staying zen during the pandemic.

1. Take a Tech Detox

Teaching online is incredibly overwhelming and tiring and being in front of a screen for many hours is draining. Later in the evening, instead of going to a screen to unwind by endlessly scrolling through your feed, why don’t you pick up a book and flip through some pages, call a friend, write in your journal, listen to music, do some cooking, take a hot bath. Do anything that does not involve a screen, you will notice a positive difference.

2. Get Outdoors

In the evenings, especially after weeks of being stuck in the house it can be really tempting to binge watch TV until you fall asleep on the couch. Switching off the TV, before you start relaxing, and getting outdoors will do you the world of good, but don’t forget you mask! Take a walk or go for a run, a bike ride, go for a hike or just sit in the park and watch the world go by; all whilst social distancing of course.

3. Work Out

If the weather is too hot or too cold to go outdoors, make time for yourself and do a workout. If you are going to watch TV, then make the most of it and choose something that will get your heart pumping and those endorphins rushing! You can find anything on the net, from kickboxing, to yoga to dance and so much more, have a little search. Then have a wonderful relaxing shower or bath. You will undoubtably feel rejuvenated, motivated and your thoughts will naturally fall into place making you feel like a new, de-stressed, better version of you.

4. Breathe

This is the easiest thing to do and also the one thing that is so easy to forget. Sometimes my watch reminds me to breathe. Just taking a few moments to stop and take some deep breaths can do you a world of good. Practicing your breathing can slow your heartbeat, lower or stabilize your blood pressure, and even relieve stress. And it can be done anywhere! Next time your mind is racing, step away from what you are doing, close your eyes and know that it will be alright. Tomorrow is a brand new day!

Till next time…

Photo by Jen P. on Unsplash