As we enjoy summer break, it is essential to remember to take time to recharge. Summer break should be more than an extension of the school year filled with internships or pre-college summer programmes. It should be a chance to recharge our mental, emotional, and physical batteries.
Think of your well-being as a cup that periodically needs to be refilled. As the school year progresses, our cups start to feel empty due to the demands and pressures we face. However, summer break allows us to fill our cups and restore ourselves. Each activity that nurtures our mental, emotional, and physical well-being acts as a drop that replenishes our emotional capital within our cups. By actively engaging in practices promoting self-care and restoration, we ensure that our cups remain full and we have abundant emotional capital to draw from when needed most. Here are a few ideas for restoring your cup this summer.
Mental Refill:
Everyone needs a mental break from time to time, and summer is a wonderful time to focus on mental restoration. Our minds work hard throughout the school year, processing information and solving problems. Giving our minds a chance to rest and recharge is vital as it helps with mental sharpness. You can achieve mental restoration by doing things that bring you joy and help you relax. This mental restoration could be reading a book you've been meaning to read, trying out a new hobby, working on puzzles, or spending time in nature.
Emotional Rejuvenation:
Emotions are a big part of our lives and are often overlooked or forgotten about as we progress through our daily lives. Summer break is an excellent opportunity to rejuvenate emotionally and strengthen our well-being. Over the summer, take some time to reflect on what makes you feel happy and fulfilled. Also, do things you love and surround yourself with people who fill your cup. Taking time to restore your emotional well-being in the summer will go a long way when September rolls around.
Physical Revitalization:
Taking care of our physical health is also crucial for our overall well-being. Our bodies carry us through everything life throws at us, so it's essential to prioritize our physical health. During the summer break, prioritize your physical health by exercising regularly, consuming nutritious meals, and ensuring enough sleep on a proper sleep cycle. Focusing on your physical health over the summer will help you feel more energized and prepared for the new school year.
Contributed by Matthew Shaw, Senior School Counsellor