Real Talk
Teaching is a tough gig! Most of us live in a constant state of depletion. We’re exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed, worried, and frustrated. And that’s when we aren’t teaching in a pandemic! It’s hard to be in a positive mood sometimes. Here to the rescue is a list of 50 simple mood boosters you can complete in five minutes or less. Comb through this list and try out your favorites – or maybe give something new a go – to refill your cup.
50 Mood Boosters Teachers Can Do in Under Five Minutes
- Take a vitamin.
- Drink a glass of water
- Brew the perfect cup of coffee and take sips of it while still hot
- Make your bed
- Put on red lipstick
- Do a downward dog
- Text a friend just to say good morning
- Take a hot shower with your favorite soap
- Sing at the top of your lungs
- Pour yourself a drink
- Put on sunscreen
- Wear an outfit that makes you feel great
- Stargaze
- Find pictures in the clouds
- Window shop
- Give yourself a manicure
- Eat some cookie dough
- Hug a loved one
- Read a poem
- Practice belly breathing
- Say a prayer
- Give someone a compliment
- Write a thank-you note
- Swing and slide at the park
- Watch a sunset
- Plant a seed
- Walk barefoot in the grass
- Power pose in the mirror
- Burn your favorite scented candle
- Pet an animal
- Pick flowers
- Eat ice cream straight from the carton
- Sleep in five extra minutes
- Puddle stomp
- Dance in the kitchen
- Order pizza for dinner because it’s easier
- Write in a journal
- Ask somebody for help – you don’t have to do it all!
- Listen to a guided meditation
- Donate 10 things to charity
- Smile at everyone
- Write down your goals for the day, week, or month
- Pay for the next person’s coffee at the coffee shop
- Practice gratitude
- Eat a serving of fruit or vegetables
- Walk your dog
- Clean out your junk drawer
- Tune into your intuition
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Thank your body for its hard work at the end of the day
This year has been hard on us all, with no immediate end in sight. Be just as kind to yourself as you are to your students every day with some acts of quick and simple mood boosters. It’s more than deserved – it’s needed.
