Are You Lost without a School Bell? Check the Load Meter.

According to AIA Singapore , findings from a new study indicate 9 in 10 Singaporeans are still struggling with their mental health. Amongst the mental health challenges, Anxiety and Major Depressive Disorders were found to of significant concern. (Mental Health Findings)

As Teachers and Educators grapple to face the new normal everyday amid pandemic lockdowns, the reopening of schools and closure again, Home based learning and more, the are constantly facing stress and anxiety not only to provide quality education but also role playing part parents, part friends, guide , mentor, cushioning pillow and much more.

Without a school bell, teachers can often find themselves in an endless loop of checking, writing and answering mails, planning resources for distance or online learning, learning new modes of online learning, engagement and motivating students.

Tending to your own personal health may seem important but not urgent due to lack of other pressing time consuming issues. It's when you are more than busy that tending to yourself should be a priority.

Over a period of time,  I have gathered a few tips and tricks for self Care.

Here's my Sketch note :

1.  SIP on that COOL Drink - It's when you feel anxious and worked up, that cool drink does

wonders. Just a sip is enough to bring down your red hot soaring temperature to a gentle breezy status.

That is a good point to start thinking about yourself.

2. PLAN a HAPPY daily time - As you start to take care of yourself, start your day with a happy

 activity, even if it is for 5-10 minutes, an activity that connects you to yourself. It could range

from listening to your favorite song to tending to your mini garden, from gentle breathing exercise to a

shaking up burpees, journaling to photo taking,  An activity should be invigorating and refreshing 

and most importantly should bring a smile on your face.

3.  COOP NOT, COPE UP - We often shy away from talking about our feelings, especially at

work place. Nevertheless, workplace could be a safe haven as most of us might be sharing the similar

feelings and equally don't know what to do. It could be a place of mutual comfort and also could lead to

strengthening relationships. 

4. CHEER on Each Other - As you may begin to build new relationships and hold on to existing, it

important to create a place of support and encouragement. Counting on each other especially in

unprecedented and turbulent times will provide anchor for stability and trust. 

5. STEP OUT , Out of the Box - Often we start seeing our thoughts as reality and this is the reason

of most of our suffering. We tend to forget that thoughts are not a trustworthy source and temporary. It

 might seem disturbing at first but could be empowering allowing for immense freedom. By allowing

 yourself to think yet not regard it as the ultimate gives the opportunity to be active and seeking, both

 necessary for self growth. One technique to do is simple Mental Noting, acknowledging the

 happening during a day without any judgement.

6. PRACTISE INTENT -  When you have a clear objective in sight, it is a good reminder of your

intent and your actions are automatically focused towards it. A good tip to bring your focus in sight is to

make small sticky notes with consistent objective on all of your gazing spaces, empty walls, closets,

 laptops, water bottle and even on sides of your couch . It is a constant reminder of what is urgent

 and important, urgent but not important, not urgent but important, neither urgent nor important. Set an

 achievable target and set just one reminder, in color coded stickies to keep you there. Do not

 overcrowd your space inviting for uncalled and unnecessary.

7. PACK TO CARRY, NOT TO WORRY - WEIGH YOUR LOAD - It is important is to absorb as

much or as little as your Load meter allows for. Don't compare yourself with anyone as you come with

your own capacities and capabilities. Of course these can be built overtime with skills

and training but you need to accept as much as you can bear. Overloading your competencies,

abilities and strength could lead to permanent damage beyond alteration.

Self Care is crucial for Self Love and and Self Development. If you feel loved and worthy, you will

tend to make productive choices. Centre all your focus to be your true version of yourself.

Disclaimer : The opinions expressed in this article are solely of the author. The article is not a
 substitute for professional mental health advice.