The physical, emotional and mental fatigue that goes along with teaching should not be underestimated. Breaks are more than something to look forward to - they are sometimes the only thing that keeps you going through the year. This year my spring break falls nicely during Holy Week and that is extra special for me. It gives me the chance to rest and to refocus on what is most important in my life.
In my book "Recess for Teachers: Taking Time Out for Your Body, Mind, and Soul" I outline the different types of fatigue that are unique to teachers and offer ways to regenerate and rejuvenate yourself and therefore your teaching. When you're weary, where do you turn? Often we choose less appropriate ways to "escape" when what we could really use are ways to recharge.
If you are weary, or if you know a teacher who could use some "recess" let me know in your comments what is making you so weary. I will send a copy of "Recess for Teachers" to the first 5 comments.
"Teaching fatigue is similar to battle fatigue because it's caused by stress and interferes with a teacher's job performance. By the time teachers experience this kind of fatigue, they're burned out and look for ways to leave teaching altogether. Good teachers give more than 100 percent of themselves to their students. It's not surprising they experience debilitating fatigue. The profession and our children can't afford to lose them. One way to extinguish fatigue is to recognize it in its many forms and then set out intentionally to change your thought life, your physical life, and your spiritual life to reflect your desire for rest and renewal." (p. 6)
Come to Me, all of your who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30