Maybe you thought it would never come, but the summer holiday is finally here! After a long term, the holidays can feel like a lifeline. But teachers (and I’m including myself here!) often find it hard to truly switch off. Holiday wellbeing for teachers isn’t just about taking a break; it’s about intentional rest that recharges your mind, body, and spirit.
It’s easy to slip into ‘catch up’ mode – tackling endless life admin, preparing for next term, or feeling guilty for resting at all. But without deliberate strategies to protect your time and energy, the holiday can slip away without real recovery.
Here are three practical ways to prioritise holiday wellbeing for teachers:
Set Boundaries Early
Decide before the holiday starts what your non-negotiables are. It might be setting a ‘no work emails’ rule for a week, or allocating specific days for any prep work rather than letting it seep across the break. Boundaries create space for real rest.
Create a Mini-Ritual for Recovery
Small rituals signal to your body and mind that it’s time to slow down. Whether it’s a daily walk without your phone, a morning coffee in silence, or setting aside time for a creative hobby, intentional rituals help shift you out of ‘school mode’ and into recovery mode.
Reimagine What Recharging Looks Like
Recovery isn’t only about doing nothing. For some teachers, it’s about reconnecting with passions, spending time outdoors, or starting small projects unrelated to school. Think about what genuinely fills you up, and give yourself permission to prioritise it without guilt.
I won’t be writing or posting further blogs in the hols (because I really believe in the need for rest and I practice what I preach!) but I am still open for some sessions. If you need some support to make sure you ringfence the time you need, I can help. Get in touch!
