Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/358877
we're not working, we're always on cellphones, iPads, or anything but taking in the moment." Practice survival skills Pace activities instead of rushing from one to another, and make time for enjoyable activities, whether it is running a marathon or having a manicure. "Don't get caught up in school gossip or worrying if you belong to the popular group of teachers. Form your own friendships," says Johnson. "Focus on the positive. Allow yourself to be happy, celebrate victories, and encourage yourself the way you would a colleague. We always nurture oth- ers and don't take care of ourselves. You may think you don't have time to de-stress, but it's crucial. It makes you a better educator, parent and spouse. It prevents illnesses and can even save your life." "Like most things, educators already know the answers when it comes to ways they can decrease stress in their lives," she adds. "We just need a reminder occasionally." about what is troubling you, they add. Most districts pro- vide coverage for this at a nominal cost, which can provide insight into what is making you anxious. Find tranquility "Close your eyes," urges Michelle Johnson. "Create a per- fect place in the country or the mountains, on a beach or on a cruise ship. It may be a place you've only dreamed of. Decide what you are doing in that perfect place. Perhaps sitting, walking, playing, listening to music or soaking in a hot tub. Examine all your muscles to see if each is beginning to relax. If not, let your mind wander over to that muscle. Tense it, hold it for a second and then allow it to relax. You are not thinking about tomorrow. Enjoy your space." The "recipe for relaxation" was cooked up to help educators lower their stress. Johnson, a cadre trainer who teaches workshops on de-stressing, encourages partici- pants to indulge in 10 to 20 minutes of "quiet time" at the end of the day to help clear the mind and increase happiness levels. Johnson knows a thing or two about stress as pres- ident of the 1,500-member Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association. "You might call it meditation or clearing your mind of negative thoughts. It's really just taking a moment. When P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S C O T T B U S C H M A N S T R E S S E D ? What makes you The research of Michael Fanning, professor in CSU East Bay's Educational Leadership program, shows the leading causes of stress are classrooms where teachers are not given adequate assistance with disruptive students; schools where teachers have a weak voice in shared leadership; and schools lacking support and appre- ciation from administrators. The California Faculty Association member offers some coping strategies: Don't go it alone. Collaborate with other teachers and supportive school leaders for the support you need. Pay attention when given positive comments and appreciation from students, parents, peers and administrators. Often educators are so exhausted and stressed, they miss opportunities to listen to the comments that remind them they are doing a good job. Seek a balanced life. Let go of work and enjoy a walk, read a book, paint a picture, visit friends or watch a favorite TV show (especially if it helps you laugh out loud). It provides a "mini-vacation," a happier perspective on the world, and recharges your batteries. Stopping for a hot drink and spending 20 minutes browsing in a bookstore are a few of Melissa Rogers' relaxation suggestions. Learning Michael Fanning 43 V O L U M E 1 9 I S S U E 1