Counsellor's Corner

12 Days of Self-Care

It has been such a pleasure to have been welcomed so warmly to the community of St George’s Anglican Grammar School. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know many of you and I look forward to another year of supporting our students. I want to acknowledge this busy time - the hustle and bustle, the exhaustion and excitement, and the need for self-care during our holidays. 

The Christmas holidays evoke a mix of excitement and overwhelm. For students, thoughts of long-awaited sleep-ins, cozy PJ days, movie nights and catching up with friends take centre stage. Teachers and staff may view it as a chance to wash away and recoup, after a year's hard work and commitment to our students. For parents and families, it's an opportunity to reconnect, slow down, and relish precious moments together.

Yet, let us acknowledge that this time can be challenging for many. For some, it might be the first year without a special someone, with grief swelling as memories and beautiful moments flood in. For others, the season may be overwhelming, a whirlwind of busyness, rush, and demands with functions, family gatherings, event planning, and gift shopping.

With this in mind, it is super important to recognise the importance of self-care during the holiday period—for everyone. Self-care during school holidays is crucial for recharging and preventing burnout. It allows individuals, including students, teachers, and families, to relax both physically and mentally. Engaging in self-care activities enhances overall well-being, contributes towards a stress-free, restful holiday experience, and positively impacts academic and professional performance. Additionally, prioritising self-care fosters stronger bonds in families and reinforces a healthy work-life balance, setting the stage (and our health and wellness) for success in the new year.

Here are 12 days of self-care for the holidays. I’d love to hear from anyone who manages to do all 12!

Day 1: A Mindful Moment

Spend at least 10 minutes in quiet meditation using apps like 'Insight Timer' for guided sessions. Remember, carving out this time is crucial; you owe it to yourself.

Day 2: Digital Detox

Take a break from social media! Unplug and enjoy quiet time without constant notifications. Apps like 'Opal' or 'One Sec' are fantastic for cultivating healthier, more mindful habits.

Day 3: Movie or Series Marathon

Watching favourite movies or exploring new series is a great way to unwind and enjoy entertainment. It provides a mental escape and can be a shared experience with friends or family.

Day 4: DIY Spa Day

Pamper yourself with a spa day for relaxation and self-care. A hot bath, a warm shower, and a face mask can create a sense of sanctuary at home.

Day 5: Outdoor Adventure

Spending time outdoors boosts mood, reduces stress, and encourages a connection with nature. Take a walk, hike, or simply enjoy the fresh air.

Day 6: Creative Expression

Engage in creative activities that foster self-expression and joy. Consider creating a vision board for the upcoming year on Canva or through drawing.

Day 7: "You" Time

Set aside frequent moments for yourself each day. Allocate five minutes to have a breather, collect your thoughts, and benefit your mental health.

Day 8: Tech-Free Night

Take a break from screens to promote face-to-face interaction and strengthen social bonds. Board games and non-digital activities offer entertainment without distractions.

Day 9: Music Therapy

Create a playlist on Spotify or your preferred platform, exploring different genres or artists. Music can be a form of self-expression and a mood enhancer.

Day 10: Learn Something New

Foster a sense of accomplishment and curiosity by learning a new skill. Whether it's crocheting, flower pressing, baking, or creating something in the shed, embrace the challenge.

Day 11: Random Acts of Kindness

Contribute to a sense of purpose and connection by performing acts of kindness. Send a nice message to a loved one, a friend, or share encouraging words with a neighbour.

Day 12: Reflect and Plan

Reflect on achievements and challenges, setting intentions for the future. Promote goal-setting and a positive mindset for the upcoming year.

Remember: Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you! I hope you find time to unplug, recharge, relax, and unwind. Looking forward to seeing you in the new year.

Ms Ebony Kriedemann

School Counsellor