This post is all about self-care tips for beginning teachers.

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Starting your teaching journey is so exciting. You learn so much in your first few years as a teacher and you grow in so many different ways. There are so many positives in beginning this journey, but it can also be overwhelming. With lesson planning, marking, and classroom management on your plate, There is a lot to juggle. When everything is a first, things take time and this can be stressful.

Self-care might not seem like a priority. However, taking care of yourself is essential for your well-being and the success of you and your students. Here are some essential self-care tips tailored for beginning teachers to help you balance work and wellness.

Prioritise Your Mental Health as a Teacher

Teaching can be emotionally demanding, so it’s important to take steps to support your mental health. One way to do this is to practice mindfulness by doing things such as journaling to help you stay grounded.

When I started teaching, I often felt overwhelmed by the constant demands. One day, I decided to try the ‘5 Minute Journal’ after school. I slowly but surely started to feel calmer, more focused, and ready to tackle the next day. It was a nice way to wind down after a busy day and keep my mind off things. Over time, I made mindfulness a daily habit, and it became one of the most effective tools in my self-care toolkit.

The 5-Minute Journal

Actionable Tips:

• Start your day with 5 minutes of mindfulness to set a positive tone.
• Use journaling to reflect on the highs and lows of your day. Write down three things you’re grateful for each morning to cultivate a positive mindset. The 5 minute journal is a perfect way to do this
• Download a mindfulness app to guide you through breathing exercises or body scans.

Set Boundaries to Achieve Work-Life Balance

One of the biggest challenges for new teachers is knowing when to switch off. Setting clear boundaries between work and personal time is key to avoiding burnout.

In my first few years of teaching, I stayed at work late a lot, perfecting lessons and answering emails. It wasn’t sustainable. After a few months, I realised I had to prioritise my health. I started setting clear work hours and made a point of not checking emails after 6 PM. I would turn off any email notifications and just check them the next morning. This small change gave me more time to recharge and made me a better teacher during the day.

Here are some resources that helped me work towards a better work/life balance:

Daily Check List

Blue-Light Glasses

SHOP HERE

Weekly Planner

Actionable Tips:

• Limit the time you spend checking emails outside school hours. Set a specific “cut-off” time for work-related tasks each evening.
• Schedule specific times for grading and stick to them. Use a timer to keep yourself on track.
• Communicate your boundaries with colleagues and administrators politely but firmly.

Create a Calming Space at Home

After a long day, having a relaxing space at home can help you decompress and recharge. Even if it’s just your bedroom, make this space stress-free. This space should be a place where you can unwind and let go of the stresses of the day.

Here are some resources that help me unwind and relax after a stressful day:

Essential Oils Diffuser

Cozy Blanket

Actionable Tips:

• Dedicate a corner of your home to relaxation with candles, soft lighting, and soothing music.
• Add personal touches like indoor plants, cosy throws, or artwork that inspires you.
• Avoid bringing work into this space—keep it strictly for relaxation.

Practise Physical Wellness for Better Energy

Taking care of your physical health is just as important as mental wellness. A well-rested, active teacher is more effective in the classroom and better equipped to handle challenges. I personally love running as even a 20 minute run can feel so beneficial.

Here are some resources that can help with your physical well-being:

Yoga Mat

Lavender Eye Pillow

SHOP HERE

Stanley Cup

Actionable Tips:

• Try a quick 10-minute yoga routine in the morning to energise your body and mind.
• Establish a bedtime routine to ensure quality sleep, such as avoiding screens an hour before bed or using a sleep mask.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day and pack nutritious snacks to keep your energy levels stable.

Build a Support System for Emotional Wellness

Teaching can feel isolating, especially in your first year. Building connections with colleagues, mentors, and teacher communities can provide the emotional support you need.

Actionable Tips:

• Seek out a mentor teacher for guidance and advice. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share concerns.
• Join teacher communities online or in your local area to exchange ideas and support.
• Stay connected with friends and family outside of teaching to maintain a balanced perspective.

An encouraging teacher gift for yourself or your teaching friend

Explore Creative Outlets to Reduce Stress

Engaging in hobbies or creative outlets outside of teaching can be a great way to reduce stress and bring joy into your life.

Actionable Tips:

• Try out a new hobby like painting, yoga, or cooking.
• Use weekends to explore nature or take day trips to recharge.
• Incorporate creativity into your teaching if it brings you joy, like designing fun classroom decorations.

Self-Care is a Journey, Not a Destination

Self-care for teachers isn’t a one-time act—it’s a habit that grows over time. Start with one or two strategies that resonate with you, and build from there. Remember, when you take care of yourself, you’re also setting a positive example for your students.

For more ideas, check out our resources on Calm Corners and Social-Emotional Learning Strategies. Don’t forget to subscribe to our email list for a free self-care checklist for teachers!