The summer holidays are almost here, but for some of us, getting into the holiday mode is not that easy. Often, teachers will already be stressing about the next term, their students’ grades, and lesson plans instead of relaxing and enjoying being on holiday. While it is important to be prepared for the new school year, it is equally important to take some time for yourself, relax, and not feel guilty about it. Here are six simple ways to de-stress this summer holiday.
1. Binge-Watch Netflix During Summer Break
One of the best features of Netflix is that you can watch it anywhere, like in bed! Nothing sounds better than watching your new favorite series with a fluffy blanket, on a comfy couch or bed, and with your favorite snack. Netflix has tons of great and interesting shows that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re into thrilling dramas, lighthearted comedies, or fascinating documentaries, there’s something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Create a cozy binge-watching setup with soft lighting, snacks, and all the pillows you can find. Here are the top 10 Netflix shows to binge this summer https://www.watchmojo.com/video/id/19047.
Recommended Shows
– Thrillers: “Stranger Things,” “Mindhunter”
– Comedies: “The Good Place,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”
– Documentaries: “Our Planet,” “13th”
Adding variety to your watchlist can make the experience more enjoyable and less monotonous. Consider alternating between different genres to keep things fresh and exciting.
2. Enjoy the Simple Things and Quality Time
As a teacher, you are constantly running around, and now is the perfect opportunity to sit down and just enjoy a nice cup of tea with your favorite sweet treat. Sometimes the best way to relax is to stop and appreciate the small things that you are now able to do with your free time. Try savoring a peaceful breakfast on your balcony, watching the sunrise, or simply taking a quiet walk in the park. Spending quality time with family and friends during these moments can significantly enhance your mental well-being and help you recharge.
Simple Pleasures:
- Sip on a cup of herbal tea while listening to your favorite music.
- Indulge in a luxurious bubble bath with a good book.
- Spend a leisurely afternoon people-watching at a local cafe.
Additional Activities
– Journaling: Write about your day or your thoughts to clear your mind.
– Gardening: Spend time with your plants or start a small herb garden.
– Cooking/Baking: Try out new recipes and enjoy the process of making something from scratch.
Taking joy in these simple activities can help ground you and provide a sense of accomplishment without the stress.
3. Read a Book
Finally, you have the time to sit down and enjoy a book and not just any kind of book, but a novel! Say goodbye to teaching-related books, pamphlets, or essays and hello to your favorite fiction or non-fiction reads. Kindles have so many cheap books available, so why not explore them this summer? Reflecting on the past year while reading can also provide valuable insights and improvements for the upcoming year.
Reading Ideas:
- Dive into a bestseller from the Kindle Best Sellers list https://www.amazon.com/Kindle-eBooks/b?ie=UTF8&node=154606011.
- Join a virtual book club to discuss your reads with others.
- Explore genres you’ve never read before, like fantasy or memoirs.
Book Recommendations
– Fiction: “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern, “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
– Non-Fiction: “Educated” by Tara Westover, “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
– Classics: “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, “1984” by George Orwell
Reading is a great way to escape into another world and take a break from reality, allowing your mind to relax and recharge.
4. Get Outside
After spending long days inside teaching your students and long nights marking papers, it’s time that you go outside and enjoy your day. Why not go to the local park or see what’s happening in your area and explore a bit? Not only is it relaxing to be out in nature, but it is also great exercise, which is always a bonus. Engaging in outdoor activities can significantly improve your mental health by providing a much-needed break and promoting overall wellbeing.
Outdoor Activities:
- Take a leisurely hike in a nearby nature reserve.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy it by a lake or in a park.
- Try out geocaching for a fun treasure hunt adventure.
More Ideas for Outdoor Fun
– Cycling: Explore your neighborhood or local trails on a bike.
– Beach Day: Spend a day by the sea, swimming, sunbathing, or collecting seashells.
– Stargazing: Find a quiet spot away from city lights and enjoy the night sky.
Spending time outdoors can significantly boost your mood and overall well-being, offering a refreshing change of scenery.
5. Yoga
Why not pick up a new hobby this vacation that is not only good for your health but is also very relaxing for both your body and mind? Yoga is a great way to de-stress this holiday through meditation and exercise, and anyone can do it. Start with some beginner-friendly routines and gradually explore more advanced poses. Engaging in yoga can also be a form of professional development, enhancing your well-being and preparing you for the upcoming academic year.
Yoga Resources:
- Follow along with a 20-minute beginner yoga video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7AYKMP6rOE.
- Attend a local yoga class for a more social experience.
- Download a yoga app to guide your practice wherever you are.
Benefits of Yoga for Mental Health
– Improves Flexibility: Helps you become more limber.
– Reduces Stress: The combination of physical activity and meditation can help lower cortisol levels.
– Boosts Mental Clarity: Enhances your focus and mental well-being.
Yoga can be practiced anywhere, making it an ideal activity for summer relaxation, whether at home, in a park, or on the beach.
6. Have a Lazy Day
One of the best ways to spend your summer holidays is by doing nothing at all! Why not have a lazy day where you sleep in and stay in your PJs all day? Not only is it super relaxing, but nothing shouts being on holiday more than relaxing in your PJs while ordering some takeout. This can be a perfect way to enjoy a well-deserved break after a demanding school year.
Lazy Day Tips:
- Create a no chores rule for the day.
- Watch a marathon of your favorite movies or TV series.
- Order your favorite comfort food and enjoy it guilt-free.
More Ways to Embrace Laziness
– Napping: Take short naps throughout the day to fully rest.
– Phone-Free Time: Disconnect from digital distractions to enhance relaxation.
– Pampering: Treat yourself to a DIY spa day with face masks and foot soaks.
Embracing laziness for a day can help reset your energy levels and give you a much-needed break from your routine.
Conclusion
Taking the time to unwind and de-stress is crucial, especially after a busy school year. Whether it’s binge-watching your favorite shows, savoring the small pleasures, diving into a good book, enjoying the great outdoors, practicing yoga, or simply indulging in a lazy day, there are plenty of ways to relax and recharge. Remember, the more you take care of yourself now, the better prepared you’ll be for the upcoming academic year. Happy holidays and happy relaxing!
