Reserve yourself a break

 

By Miss Cherry Wong

 

Is your life busy? As a new teacher, I think my life is quite busy. Having English lessons with students, writing teaching plans, preparing teaching materials and organising reading lessons are all duties and responsibilities that I have to fulfil. Frankly speaking, I feel quite exhausted sometimes, especially at the beginning of the school year. I realise that I have to find some ways to destress. Thus, I try to reserve at least one hour after work to enjoy my “me time” every day. In my “me time”, I usually don’t do much besides watching reality TV shows. I will also tell myself that “my mind and body needs a break now. Rest is productive too”, while I am watching reality TV shows. I keep trying this practice on a regular basis. I can truly maintain a relaxed mental state and start a new refreshing day every morning. 

 

Moreover, to a certain extent, students are as busy as teachers due to the fact that they have different extracurricular activities and tutorial classes after school. Students also bear different responsibilities physically and mentally. Therefore, they have to find some ways to relieve their own pressure as well. Everyone is unique. You may have your own methods to relax yourself and feel comfortable. No matter which ways suit you best, I would like to remind you to always reserve some time to take a break. This way, you can keep yourself on a sustainable learning journey. 

 

Here are some practical tips that can guide you to relax yourself and take a break. First of all, stay screen-free for 30 minutes before you sleep. It allows your eyes to feel less tired. Also, it may help you maintain a calm mental state and have a quality sleep. Secondly, try to do some stretching exercises before you sleep. Stretching your arms and legs may feel painful, but it definitely helps with loosening your body and relaxing your muscles. You may try this out for yourself during bedtime and check whether it works out or not. Once you start doing this practice, you will believe in its results. Thirdly, drink a glass of warm water when you get up every morning. This is a practice I keep doing every day. Drinking a glass of warm water not only keeps your body hydrated, but also freshens up your mentality with a positive mindset. Try to have this simple and easy morning routine to start off  a new day!