Summer Self-Care: A Teacher's Guide to Refresh, Recharge, and Rejuvenate

Many, many, many moons ago I wrote a blog post called 5 Things Every Teacher Should Do Each Summer. That list focused primarily on work you could do over the summer to improve your teaching, like sorting your computer files, attending professional development sessions, and planning your curriculum. One year later I wrote 5 More Things Every Teachers Should Do Each Summer, that included a bit more R&R but was still very "doing" focused. Back then I was young and spry, and the field of education hadn't imploded into a complete disasterpiece of stress, burnout, and political vilification.

So this year I'm presenting a new list, focused on self-care, because you put 19.7 months of work in this school year and dammit, you deserve a break!

While I am giving this as a list, you do not have to do all of this. I mean really you don't have to do any of it, but if you do, I highly suggest you pick and choose what appeals to you and will help you recharge. I tried to include a mix of things to appeal to different dichotomies like indoor or outdoor, active or passive, and social or independent, so you can find something you like regardless of if you're an extroverted mountain climber or an introverted gamer.

So without further ado, here are 9 ideas for how teachers can make the most of their summer break.

Idea #1: Rekindle Your Hobbies

We all have hobbies that take a backseat during the school year. Whether yours is painting, reading, cooking, or any other hobby, summer is the time to embrace it. These leisure activities aren't just fun - they’re nourishment for your soul and an excellent way to unwind. Without work obligations in the way you can set up that 1000 piece puzzle on your desk without having the pack it away each night, finally finish that scrapbook you keep getting distracted from and forgetting, or take apart the engine of the classic car that's been taking up room in your garage all year. Let loose and fully commit to the things that bring you joy.

Idea #2: Connect With Nature

There's a reason that green is the color of tranquility, so ditch the indoors and get outside. Go for walks, have a picnic, visit your local park or nature center, or simply bask in the beauty of your yard or neighborhood. Studies have shown that being out in nature has therapeutic effects: it reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and rejuvenates the mind. Getting some daily sunlight is also crucial for our bodies to develop Vitamin D. Just don't forget the sunblock!

Idea #3: Travel (Even If It’s a Staycation)

A change of scenery can do wonders for your mental health. Plan a getaway, visit family, or explore a new city. If traveling isn't feasible, look for new ways to relax at home. Check out a new museum or restaurant, and engage in activities that you normally wouldn’t. Or turn your home into a mini spa with a relaxing bath, soothing music, and some aromatherapy. Try engaging in some mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, or simply breathing exercises. Anything to mix things up and tell your brain it's okay to let go and unwind.

Idea #4: Catch Up On Sleep (Your Body Will Thank You) 

This one’s simple. Sleep! The school year probably had you up at odd hours, juggling more than you could handle. Now is the time to catch up on sleep. It's not indulgence; it's a necessity for your mental and physical health. Everyone needs a different amount of optimal sleep each time. Try going to bed when you feel tired and waking up naturally (without setting an alarm). It may take a week or two for your body to catch up on lost sleep but eventually it should balance out to a regular rhythm. Then you'll have a better idea of hour many hours of sleep your body needs each night. Make sure you get that much over the summer and then prioritize maintaining that sleep schedule once the new year begins.
 

Idea #5: Spend Time With Loved Ones

We all know how the grind of the school year can consume us, leaving little time for socializing. Summer is the perfect time to reconnect with family and friends. Share laughs, create memories, and remind yourself that you have a personal life that deserves attention too. Play a family backyard barbecue, arrange some coffee dates with friends, or finally attend that book club you've been hearing about. Engage in meaningful conversations and support one another in your aspirations and challenges. Additionally, if you have children, spending quality time with them is priceless. Engage in activities that allow you to bond. Build a fort, have a movie night, or work on a DIY project together. Remember, social well-being is integral to overall health. This time spent with loved ones will recharge your emotional batteries, and remind you that there's a vibrant personal life that deserves just as much attention and care as your professional one.
 

Idea #6: Reflect and Set Goals

Reflection is a powerful tool. Take a tranquil moment to reflect on the past year. What went well? Celebrate it! What could have been better? Learn from it. Set new goals, but remember, they should serve to uplift you, not burden you. This isn’t the time for harsh critique; it’s a time for gentle growth. If you write your goals out in a planner or journal (I'm a huge proponent of bullet journaling myself), consider taking a few minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for. Maintaining a gratitude journal can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health. It’s a small act, but it can dramatically shift your perspective to one of positivity and abundance.
 

Idea #7: Indulge in Some Good Reads

Pick up that book you’ve been eyeing all year. Reading is not only a leisure activity but also an opportunity to escape into different worlds and learn something new. Personally I always bring home two stacks of books - one of YA novels and one of pedagogy books. I know I won't get around to reading every book in my stack, but I like giving myself a variety of options to choose from so I always have something that will suit my mood.
 

Idea #8: Professional Development (But Make It Fun)

Professional development is an integral part of a teacher’s life, and it can often be tedious. If you have options, attend workshops or webinars that genuinely interest you. Take notes and think about how you can apply what you learn to make the coming year better. Seek fun and engaging ways to learn something new. Better yet, if they’re in a different city, combine it with Idea #3! If possible, bring along your teacher bestie and make a fun day of it by meeting for coffee before hand, and maybe going for a walk or out for a proper meal once you're done. Having someone you enjoy being with and trust is a huge upgrade for any PD session. If you like the content, you have someone to discuss and springboard ideas off of. If it's dullsville, you have someone to commiserate and (quietly) crack jokes with.
 

Idea #9: Volunteer for a Cause Close to Your Heart

Dedicating some time to giving back not only impacts the community but nourishes your soul. It instills a sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment. Research even suggests that people who volunteer experience lower levels of depression, increased life satisfaction, and enhanced well-being. Identify a cause that resonates with your values. It could be anything from helping out at a local animal shelter, participating in a neighborhood cleanup, mentoring youth, or getting involved in a charity. Add in Idea #5 and encourage your friends or family to join in to create a ripple effect of positive change. Maybe even consider setting up a recurring volunteer plan throughout the year. It doesn’t have to be every week, but a little bit consistently can go a long way to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, and in your own.

Bonus Idea #10: Plan Ahead - Slowly and Steadily

I know I said the focus of this post was about self-care and rejuvenation, but the truth is that spending some time planning now can save you exponentially more time and stress once the new school year starts. For that reason I recommend that you slowly start preparing for the new academic year towards the end of summer. A steady pace prevents last-minute stress and ensures you’re well-prepared to tack the year ahead. Just give yourself plenty of time to relax first!

As you embark on your summer break, remember that this time is not just a break from work, but an opportunity to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. You’ve nurtured countless minds, and now it’s time to nurture your own. Engage in activities that make you happy, and don’t feel pressured to be constantly productive. Your well-being is paramount! 

Let’s make this summer a healing journey, a rediscovery of self, and a time of gentle growth. When the new school year rolls around, you’ll be refreshed, revitalized, and ready to make a difference once again in the lives of your students.

Enjoy Your Summer!