Health and Wellness Tips for Teachers

"Adios! See ya later! I'm outta here!" Did it seem like yesterday when you uttered those words as your last day of school came to a close? Now, here you are again getting ready for another fun filled school year of new students and loads of paperwork. What happened to summer?! Did you close your eyes and wake up only for the new school year to begin in less than two maybe three weeks? Well you are not alone. After a much needed summer vacation, preparing to go back to school can be quite dreadful for some. One thing I know for sure is that you can breeze right into a successful school year with these five back to school health tips for teachers.

Reflect and Plan - Take a minute to reflect on the past school year school year. Did you have a successful school year and why? What was challenging about your school year? What changes would you like to see? What do you hope to achieve for the upcoming school year? Make a list of your personal and professional goals based on your thoughts and answers.

Eat Breakfast- Having a cup of coffee is not having breakfast! It's no secret that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It provides essential nutrients and energy to help you get going. Plan to eat a light healthy breakfast such as low-fat yogurt and fruit, oatmeal with fruit or even whole grain toast with spreadable fruit and a little butter. You can choose from a variety of light and healthy foods for breakfast to help you jump start your day. Breakfast provides you with energy to keep the momentum going in your classroom.

Chill Out during Lunch- Use your lunch period to eat! Don't make phone calls, grade papers or teach during your lunch period (and yes, I know some of you teach through lunch). Take this time to relax, to clear your head and to eat. This is your time no matter how short it maybe. This little time for yourself provides the burst of energy you need for the afternoon. Skipping lunch for work will only make you ravenous towards the end of day and you'll probably end up eating something you shouldn't that is high in fat. You will feel sluggish and drained by the time you get home to deal with your own family. Chill during your lunch and always brown bag it; be easy on your pockets! Stop at your local farmers market, pick up some fresh fruit and veggies and prepare yourself some healthy meals rich in fiber and nutrients.

Organize a Weekly Chat with Colleagues - Teaching can be lonely sometimes. You stay holed up in your classrooms and very rarely do you get a chance to socialize with your colleagues. Get a group of teachers together for 30 minutes one day a week to read and discuss what's going on in the field of education. Locate an article or information pertaining to issues in your school district or discuss teaching techniques or tips that you are using. Too many teachers get bogged down with paperwork and administrative policies and don't make the time to stay abreast of current educational research. However, like any other field, it's imperative that you do! Schools are changing, your students are changing, and the world is changing!

Get Moving- Exercise at least three times a week for 30-45 minutes. You can find a partner to walk with during the evenings or early mornings or purchase some great exercise videos. You can also check out exercise videos from your local library. Regular exercise has tremendous benefits, it not only helps you shed unwanted pounds it makes you feel better too. Make time for it!

Finally, most teachers have a passion for learning and helping people. Show some passion for yourself by incorporating these small changes. Make a positive difference in your own life, take care of yourself and have a wonderful school year.