Book Bliss: 6 Lit Activities For Teachers
Self-care is necessary so you can be productive. There must be a balance between work and taking care of your body, mind, and spirit. Self-care helps you to achieve this by taking time out of your day to make sure you are okay through connecting with yourself. A teacher self-care plan is a must.
According to Brunette (2004), “Avoiding burn-out is one reason self-care is important. You cannot care for others if you do not take care of yourself. Another reason self-care is important is to enable you to be an effective teacher. If you are tired, either emotionally or physically, you cannot do your job well.”
Teachers have difficulty with taking time for themselves because they are always doing for others. Maybe someday, there will be some form of self-care training for teachers. But what we have learned is self-care practices for teachers can vary. Establishing a self-care regiment means finding those things that bring you joy and incorporating them into your daily or weekly practice.
So for those of you who are lovers of all thing’s literacy, why not incorporate it into your self-care routine. There is no need to leave it behind. A study conduct by Sussex University showed that reading can decrease stress by more than 60 percent. Here are some ways to creating a lit self-care routine.
A Teacher’s Guide To Lit Self-Care
Literacy Activities
1. Audiobooks – While taking that walk or working out at the gym why not listen to that audiobook that you have been putting off listening to. Audiobooks have made it possible for avid readers like you and me to stay connected with reading through listening to books read aloud while going about our day. There are some amazing audiobooks programs out there that will give you access to many kinds’ audiobooks.
2. Podcast – Listening to podcast can be truly addicting once you have started to do so. A good podcast can not only teach you something, but it can take your mind off a difficult workday. I enjoy dialing into podcasts that are not related to my job, so I do not feel like it is an extension of my work. Looking for non-work-related podcasts, it allows you to give your mind a rest from the grind of what you do for a living.
3. Paperback Books – Sitting down with a good old-fashion paperback book still is an absolute favorite. Reading books that have nothing to do with work again not only can relax you, but it can also give your mind a break. You know books have the power to take you on adventure.
Reading books whether is on your iPad or in paperback form can soothe the soul. Read a good romance book, how to book, or books by your favorite author can go a long way towards energizing you while adding value to your self-care routine especially if you are sitting on the beach or curled up on the couch.
A Teacher’s Guide To Lit Self-Care
4. Journaling – Taking the time out to write in a journal has the power to not only get your thoughts on paper, but to help you let go and release all those thoughts of all the things you still have to do. Writing things down can help you to not only organize your thoughts, problem solve, or reflect, but bring about clarity. Journaling allows you to have a much-needed internal conversation or dialogue with yourself. This check-in can help you to find resolution and peace when you need it the most.
5. Poetry – Even if you are not a fan of poetry, poetry can be an adventure. This form of self-care literacy can pay off big when you find something that you understand or can relate to. Poetry can give readers opportunities to get caught up in the rhythmic, flow of the words. Whether you listen to poetry in an audiobook or read it in book form, poetry may be something worth adding to your self-care plan.
6. Affirmations and Scriptures -What can be said about affirmations or scriptures other than when you read them, they can speak to your mind, body, or soul. Affirmations and scriptures are powerful because they are a great way to gain clarity and insight.
Adding this to your regular self-care routine can awake your joy and passion for reading. Starting the day off right with a daily affirmation or scripture along with your cup of coffee, your morning workout, or a good breakfast can bring a sense of balance, purpose, and well-being that can uplift your spirit.
A Teacher’s Guide To Lit Self-Care
Final Thoughts
First, find out what brings you joy. Then, create an action plan that you can stick to that is realistic. If you are not a morning person, do not begin your self-care routine in the morning. Your self-care routine should be your non-negotiable time. Finally, be consistent.
There are many literacy-related activities that can be added to the list for literacy lovers. You can indulge in a different literacy activity each day. For example, Monday -Journal Writing, Tuesday – Poetry, Wednesday – affirmations, Thursday – Podcast, and Friday – audiobooks.
It’s okay to try something new if what you are doing does not produce the desired results.
Tips To Try:
You can enhance your self-care practices with the joy and solace that books provide.
1. Set Aside Dedicated Reading Time
- Daily Reading Ritual: Schedule a specific time each day for reading, even if it’s just 15-30 minutes. This can be a peaceful way to start or end the day, providing a consistent break from work-related stress.
- Create a Cozy Reading Space: Designate a comfortable, quiet spot for reading. Add cozy elements like a favorite chair, soft lighting, and a warm blanket to make this time feel special and relaxing.
2. Join or Form a Book Club
- Social Connection: Join a book club or start one with fellow teachers or friends. Discussing books can be a great way to connect with others, share ideas, and gain new perspectives, all of which can be invigorating and fulfilling.
- Accountability and Diversity: Book clubs provide a sense of accountability to keep reading and often introduce members to genres or authors they might not have explored on their own.
3. Mix Reading with Relaxation Techniques
- Read and Reflect: Combine reading with journaling or reflective writing. After reading, spend a few minutes jotting down thoughts, quotes that resonated, or personal reflections inspired by the text. This can deepen the reading experience and provide a creative outlet.
- Mindful Reading: Practice mindful reading by fully immersing yourself in the book and focusing on the present moment. This can help reduce anxiety and increase relaxation, similar to meditation.