Teacher Wellbeing | The Best Ways to Beat Stress

Written by Alison Smith

Updated 5 years ago | 4 min read

Are you looking after your wellbeing? We all talk about wellbeing, but what does it actually mean?

So, the definition of wellbeing is the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy. Now I’m not a psychologist, but I do know that there are many teachers out there who are struggling to maintain these three states of being.

Shutterstock image by marekuliasz

A break during the school term is the perfect time to check in with yourself and increase your sense of wellbeing. Why not begin by completing our Teacher Self-Wellbeing Checklist. This checklist will help you to keep an eye on how you’re feeling. Next, set yourself a personal goal to beat stress by getting up and active during this school break.

Running for Wellbeing

Would you choose to run or meditate for 15 minutes? Research has shown that running can have some serious brain benefits. After a 15 minute run, not only will your brain secrete a significant amount of endorphins (the happy hormone), but you’ll also feel relaxed, energised and positive.

You don’t have to be an athlete to get out for a run. Whether you run continuously or alternate walking with running, set yourself a goal to get out for a 15-minute run to improve your wellbeing. You could even try a Park Run! Park Run organises free, weekly, 5km timed runs around the world. They are open to everyone, free, and are safe and easy to take part in.

Of course, the positive effects of meditation are profound. Take a look at our Mindfulness Teaching Resource Pack that includes a range of activities, meditation scripts, trackers and mindfulness colouring resources.

Climbing with Your Bestie

Boost you’re wellbeing by trying something new like climbing! Climbing strengthens your entire body and it’s a brilliant cardiovascular exercise. Most importantly climbing requires so much focus and concentration, that you won’t be able to think about the mountain of marking you need to get through.

Shutterstock image by Pixel-Shot

Climbing also increases self-awareness, self-confidence and perseverance. It’s the perfect stress reliever to enjoy with your teacher bestie. So, don’t waste another minute thinking about it, find an indoor climbing wall near you and book in a session!

For more reasons why you need a teacher bestie, read Emma’s blog 5 Reasons You Need a Teacher Bestie.

Swimming for Wellbeing

If you’re not into running or climbing, maybe swimming is for you? Ahhhhhh there is definitely something so relaxing about swimming! Maybe it’s the repetitive rhythm, the time alone or the refreshing water that is so great for wellbeing.

It’s easy to get into the zone when you are swimming. So, if swimming is your thing then it’s time to get your togs out! Whether you prefer the ocean, a warm indoor pool or a fresh outdoor pool it’s time to look after your wellbeing and wet your fins!

For more ideas on what to during the school holidays read my blog – A Teacher’s School Holiday To-Do List.

Cycling in the Great Outdoors

Do you remember how good it felt to ride a bike as a kid?

During this school break, pump up your bike tyres and pack a picnic! So, you may be thinking, I haven’t got a bike? Head to City Cycle and hire one for you and your teacher bestie! Prepare to feel as free as a bird and feel your sense of wellbeing skyrocket!

Bushwalk in the Fresh Air

Walking through nature and breathing fresh air is a brilliant way to improve wellbeing. Bushwalking can help us to relax and get away from the stress of school. Hiking can help you to forget about your problems and worries.

Bushwalking is a brilliant way to de-stress and to look after your wellbeing! On a serious note, remember to stay safe and walk with a friend!

Sing Your Way to Wellbeing

Did you know that singing is one of the ultimate ways to de-stress? Singing helps to lower your stress levels by reducing the levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in your body.

Shutterstock Image by Luis Molinero

So, during this school break, why not host a karaoke party? Or if that sounds like hard work, get a few friends together and hit a karaoke bar in the name of teacher wellbeing.

Whatever it is that helps you to relax, do it! Get up and get active! Believe me, this is one of the best ways to beat stress and to look after your wellbeing.