I usually always celebrate the New Year on the first of January, and like many of us, I make a list of goals, create a vision board, and work on fine-tuning healthy habits.
But did you know that historically many people across various cultures actually wait until the Earth renews itself to celebrate the new year? I was reading a lot about this Spring New Year over the last few months and I decided to slow down and wait to truly embrace my new year traditions in Spring, too.
And I think I may never go back!
It's just been so much easier with the sun being out longer and the weather being warmer. The interesting thing is that I've still felt the lull at school because it's that awkward (and stressful) time of the year before the countdown to summer break, but I've found that keeping the new routines I just started has helped to add renewed energy and more fulfilling afternoons.
I say all that to say, I know especially at this time of year the urge to melt into the literal and figurative couch of disassociation is extra strong, but give the Spring New Year a chance. If you've been dragging either right before or after Spring Break, try adding some new part of a routine that can give you a little extra energy/joy in the long run.
As a teacher, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to take care of ourselves. However, taking the time to establish some new routines can make a significant difference in our overall well-being, and what better time than Spring - a season meant for renewal and growth?
Whatever you choose to challenge yourself with, make it a non-negotiable part of your day that helps you feel centered. This will help combat exhaustion and burnout. Small changes can make a big difference, so start small and build from there. Your mind and body will thank you for it!
I listed some of the ones that have worked for me below, so feel free to use the list as inspiration, but always do what works best for you.
š¼ Going on a walk before or after dinner (this one has been my fave!)
š¼ Prepping teacher outfits and lunches the night before
š¼ Going to bed early
š¼ Planning at least two joyful activities for myself a week
š¼ Not taking any work home
š¼ Completing a yoga video or a GrowWithJo video (YouTube) at least twice a week
š¼ Listening to podcast episodes in the morning
š¼ Tackling one cleaning/organizing task (that I've been putting off) a week
š¼ Doing at least one activity with my students a week just for fun/laughter
š¼ Setting a scroll time limit during the week