In a recent poll, 1600 Alberta teachers expressed extreme and unsustainable levels of fatigue (94%), stress (95%), and anxiety (81%).

THIS in mid-September.

During this challenging year then, we must find ways to take care of ourselves. Consider: What rejuvenates you? What refreshes you? What calms you?

This year, we can’t put self-care at the bottom of the to-do list; this year, it must be at the top. We must be intentional about finding balance, finding time to separate ourselves from work, and finding ways to connect with others. Each and every day, we must commit to something towards our own self-care.

Remember the words of Katie Reed: “Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you.”