This is your fortnightly reminder from the team here at HeadStart to check in with yourself, REALLY check in with yourself!

How are you feeling? Physically? Emotionally? Mentally?

Half term is in sight and sometimes we keep going and going waiting for pockets of rest to look after ourselves but self-care is a priority, not a luxury. It is something we need to attend to regularly otherwise we leave ourselves with only fumes.

We can so often let our own energy levels and personal needs reach empty and as part of our own self-care routines and stress management it is vital that we take notice of the little messages our body sends us – that headache that keeps bothering you, an ache in your back, an upset stomach, feeling tired all the time? This is your body asking you to up the self-care and carve out some time to rest or indulge in activities that bring you joy. It is better that we listen to these messages when the tank reaches half full rather than letting it hit empty. Regular self-care provides a protective layer for your body and mind.

Some tips for self-care from some training we recently attended at the Anna Freud centre focused on staff wellbeing:

• Learn to say NO!
• Take time for yourself.
• Have a ‘go to’ person or people to support.
• Try to learn new coping strategies that work for you.
• Be aware of your personal limitations.
• Provide space to process negative thoughts and experiences.
• Have a plan for personal goals/interests or hobbies not education related.

Also, if you weren’t aware HeadSpace is currently free to educators: Headspace for Educators

YOU matter. Take time to look after your body and mind 😊

Published: October 21