The Art of Rest

Oxygen for Educators

In this episode, Michelle Kinder discusses the importance of self-care and well-being for educators, inspired by a quote from Nadia Bolzweber. The conversation explores how educators can identify their responsibilities, find strength in their roles, and embrace the necessity of rest and self-compassion. Key themes include the significance of mindfulness practices, the need for supportive relationships, and the balance between effort and acceptance in the demanding field of education.

Takeaways:

• Educators often face overwhelming responsibilities that exceed their available time.
• Mindfulness practices can help clarify what is truly important for each individual.
• Engaging with trusted colleagues can help identify blind spots in our understanding of our roles.
• Focusing on our sphere of influence allows us to take meaningful action without feeling overwhelmed.
• Creating a 'done for the day' list can help manage stress and promote relaxation.
• The urgency to share our gifts with the world is essential for personal fulfillment.
• Gatekeeping our attention is crucial in a world filled with distractions and negativity.
• Coping flexibility allows us to adapt our strategies to better manage stress and challenges.
• Rest is not the opposite of productivity; it is a necessary component of it.
• Micro moments of self-care can lead to significant improvements in well-being over time.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Theme of Educator Well-being 10:49 Finding Strength in Educator Roles 18:06 The Importance of Rest and Self-Compassion