Mindfulness in Teaching-A Personal Journey

In the 2021-22 school year, perhaps the most stress-filled year in my time as an educator, I signed up for the St. Michael's College graduate course, Mindfulness and Restorative Practices in Education.  I was looking for my next steps in my career, and after a deep dive into RJ in a previous district and many years working on SEL curriculum development, I knew that deepening my knowledge and skills in Restorative Practices would be essential for me to feel the daily renewal and energy that is easy to lose after nearly two decades in the classroom.  I knew that being a teacher with a sense of purpose is the only way I could continue teaching with integrity. 

It was the right move at the right time!  I had no idea how difficult this year would be--constantly short-staffed, a role that was confusing and undefined, a new school with a climate that felt like an oppressive thunderstorm to me most days, and a truly ridiculous commute!  The ONLY way I was able to make it through this school year is because I learned to take care of myself and my needs first before trying to "give" to the students.  Through the practice of mindfulness, developed through the curriculum, the professor's guidance (the wonderful, Annie O'Shaughnessey!) and cohort support in this course, I internalized the practice of "putting on my own oxygen mask first" .  This is how I was able to show up for the kids this year.  The Pause made all the difference.  Though I still struggle with a consistent mindfulness routine, I hope to keep working toward this.  In the meantime, I have been able to check in with myself, both in and out of the classroom, use mindfulness apps that feel helpful, and I've gotten really good at Box Breathing.  In-2-3-4; hold 2-3-4, out 2-3-4, hold 2-3-4, repeat for infinity (or at least until the end of the school year!)