Positive Education

Self-Care and Study Success

In the midst of the daily grind of schoolwork and deadlines, it can often feel like self-care and mental wellbeing must take a back seat. It is a common perception amongst students that academic success and positive wellbeing are separate entities that at times, are opposing in nature. Often, I ask the students; “Did you do anything nice over the weekend?”, and it is concerning to me when I hear the response, “I didn’t have time”, or “I had too much to do!” This. Just. Won’t. Do! So in this article, I want to discuss how these two seemingly different aspects of our lives can and MUST work together. 

As a school that subscribes to the philosophies and practises of Positive Education (PosEd), we believe that optimum wellbeing is integral to academic success. The research that underpins PosEd, relates to the science of positive psychology. The key tenets of which centre on increasing human flourishing through cultivating positive emotions, engagement, positive relationships, meaning and achievement. By valuing positive emotions and actively promoting wellbeing, students can increase their capacity to learn effectively. Where learning is not effective, more often than not, the issue lies in wellbeing. Therefore, it is crucial that wellbeing and academic success are given equal priority and at Mount Carmel, that is what we strive to do. 

As a staff, we do everything in our power to ensure the wellbeing and safety of our students but that can only go so far. It is so important that the students are sharing the responsibility and taking care of themselves too. By making self-care a priority in their week, they are by default, taking responsibility for their learning and their happiness. 

What is Self-Care?

Self-care can be described as a conscious act, taken in order to promote physical, mental, and emotional health. Self-care can take many forms; It could be ensuring you get enough sleep every night; stepping outside for a few minutes for some fresh air; taking a relaxing bath; switching the devices off and being present with your family; playing with a pet; ensuring a healthy diet; having a ‘pamper session’, enjoying a hobby or doing some exercise. There is no end to the self-care possibilities. The key is finding what works for you, and then doing it.....regularly! Something that allows you to switch off from the stressors in your life. Chances are, when you return to the task at hand, you will feel clearer and more equipped to complete it.  

I am going to set you all a challenge this week. To commit to engaging in some self-care activities… at least three times in the week. Then see if you can’t slowly increase it to 4 or 5 times as the weeks goes by. Make it a priority. No matter how busy you are, stick to your self-care plan. Then see if you notice any changes. Whether your focus and concentration improves, or maybe your sleep improves; or hopefully, you’ll notice an improvement in your overall sense of contentedness and wellbeing. Give it a crack… and let me know how you go! 

Click here to view a YouTube clip about Self Care.