Relaxation Techniques for Back-to-School

Back-to-school can be a stressful time for teachers. Stress can build up during busy days like parent-teacher meetings or student testing, especially in the middle of the school year. You may be tempted to work overtime, but research shows you will be more productive if you relax. Here's how to prevent stress and boost mental health with these relaxation techniques.

5 Relaxation Techniques for Teachers

1. Make Time for Things You Enjoy

During the work week, allow yourself to take a break and do something you enjoy when you are not at work. Take the time to unwind and relax, whether that's by doing yard work, crafting or even watching Netflix on the couch.

2. Stay Active

Exercise has been proven to be an effective way to relax your body and mind. Getting a mental health boost from exercise can be as simple as going for a 10-minute walk during a break, yard work in the afternoon, or yoga classes throughout the week. What matters most is to find something that fits your schedule and is something you enjoy.

3. Get Plenty of Sleep

There will be some temptation to finish a final lesson plan late at night. However, in the school year, school begins very early. A lack of sleep can impair your creativity, decrease your focus, and weaken your immune system. You should aim for six to eight hours of sleep each night to recover mentally and physically from stress.

4. Practice Deep Breathing Exercises

For those who experience "at the moment" stress, deep breathing is one of the best relaxation techniques. Give it a try when you want a break: place your hand on your chest and the other hand where your diaphragm is. After that, take a deep breath, a breath that comes from your diaphragm, then one that travels into your lungs. Continue to hold for three seconds before slowly exhaling. This should be repeated a few times or until you feel more relaxed.

5. Get Chiropractic Adjustments

It is possible to get a mental health boost from chiropractic adjustments. In addition, chiropractic care can be added to your healthy living regimen, which will help you improve your overall wellness.

For more information on preventing stress using relaxation techniques, click here to contact Markson Chiropractic, your local South Florida chiropractor.