6 De-Stressing Tips for Parent Educators

By Jason Marshall, Curriculum Coordinator at Faith

While educating young people at home can be rewarding and exciting, we know that experiencing levels of stress is something that we all deal with throughout the week.  Our body’s basic reaction to a stressful situation causes physical and mental tension. It can trigger anxiety and frustration, which is a normal part of life.

But when these feelings become too overpowering, it is no longer healthy.  That’s when it’s time to take a mental health break. 

Here are some different ways to take some time throughout the day to reset and promote a healthy mind and body for you and your children.  These are not new ideas, but we often need reminders to help us to prioritize our well being.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

-Matthew 6:33

1. Take a Walk/do Some Exercise

Taking a walk or doing some exercise is a very effective way to improve your mood. It boosts blood circulation to the brain and helps you to think better.  We can feel too busy to exercise, however, often productivity improves following exercise. Therefore, taking the time to exercise is actually time well spent.

2. Journal

Penning down your thoughts is a fun way to stay organized, clear your head, and express your creativity.  It helps to boost positive moods, enhances a sense of well-being, and helps to put things in perspective.  

3. Sit In The Sunlight

If you are spending your entire day indoors, in front of screens and books, you will be missing something very important– sunlight! 

If you can take 5-10 mins, spend time sitting under the sunlight, absorbing those warm yellow rays.  Sensible exposure to sunlight promotes a sense of well-being and improved mood, reduces depression and increases work and learning satisfaction.

4. Spend Time In Nature 

Scientific research has shown that interacting with nature generates positive emotions. It increases concentration and creativity, provides joy, and improves mental health and emotional well-being.

The typical daily routine of a week may not provide the time to spend connecting with nature, however, try to plan a regular outdoor activity or excursion for you and your family.

5. Reflect On Things You Are Grateful For

Gratitude is a very powerful tool and helps us to deal with adversity and stress.  Psalm 135:1 says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.”  When we spend time being grateful, we allow ourselves to regain a true perspective of our lives.  God is in control.  He is all we need.  

6. Spend time praying and reading the Bible

In the busyness of life, often spending time with God is one of the first things we neglect to do.  However, when we prioritize our relationship with God, calming ourselves before Him; our spiritual, mental and physical health will improve.  Remember the words of Jesus from Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Key Takeaway

No matter how busy you are in your life, always try to prioritize your mental health and self-care.  If something is putting your mental health in jeopardy, try to minimize or avoid it. Take frequent mental health breaks! Remember, it does not have to be something big or extraordinary. 

And finally, a reminder from Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.