
January and February often bring snow days across the country leaving schools cancelled, and teachers can “embrace the chill” by focusing on self-care while resting at home.
Some individuals love snow days while others hate them. In this blog, we want you to view snow days like a gift—a rare and unexpected break from the daily grind of teaching and working. Yes, it is tempting to dive into grading or lesson planning with thoughts about students and work ahead, yet, we want you to resist those thoughts. A snow day is also a perfect opportunity to do something else.
Here are some ways teachers and school leaders can use these unexpected pauses to recharge mentally, nurture their well-being physically, and prepare to do some things futuristically.
1. Start the Day Slowly
One of the best gifts of a snow day is the chance to slow down. Instead of rushing through your morning routine, savor it. Sleep in a little longer, make a warm cup of coffee or tea, and spend a few moments enjoying the quiet snowfall – one of my favorites is on the front porch wrapped up in a blanket. Taking time to ease into the day sets a relaxed tone and helps you feel grounded.
2. Get Moving
While lounging has its place, a little movement can boost your mood and energy. Bundle up and take a walk in the snow, but turn your thoughts away from school. Try a yoga session in your living room, or dance to your favorite playlist. If you have children, then fling some snowballs and get on the sled (but be careful!). Physical activity, even in small doses, releases endorphins and combats the winter blues.
3. Indulge in a Hobby
Use the extra time to dive into an activity you love but often neglect. Whether it’s baking, knitting, painting, photography, or playing an instrument, engaging in a hobby can be both relaxing and fulfilling. Creative outlets are especially helpful for reducing stress and reigniting your passion.
4. Cook Something New
Snow days are perfect for cooking or baking something delicious. Make a hearty soup, bake cookies, or experiment with a new recipe. Nourishing your body with warm, comforting food can feel like a big hug from the inside out. We all have our “go to” meals when we are in a rush, but leverage something different on this day.
5. Disconnect and Reconnect
Consider unplugging from screens for a while. Instead, use the time to reconnect. You can do that with yourself by journaling a bit with thoughts of gratitude and elements that bring you joy. You could even just have a time of free writing but, again, keep this away from school and work as much as possible. Or, you can reconnect with loved ones. Call a friend, play a board game with your family, or write a letter to someone you’ve been thinking about. Human connection is a powerful way to lift your spirits.
6. Set Boundaries for Work
It can be tempting to use a snow day to catch up on grading or lesson planning, but try to limit work-related tasks. If you decide to work, set a timer and give yourself permission to stop after a set period. As a note, when that timer goes off – STOP! If you adopt the mentality of “let me finish this thought,” then you will continue working well beyond that time. Set the boundary and keep the boundary. The rest of the day is for you.
7. Dream About the Future
Use the extra time to think about goals beyond the classroom. Is there a skill you want to learn this year? Do you have a place you want to visit? What about a new project that you want to start and finish? Let your mind wander and dream big. We are often “on the run” during the normal work week and miss dreaming and planning time. These days are a gift that can lead to amazing things later – if you leverage them correctly.
Snow days are a reminder that even in the busiest seasons, life occasionally gives us permission to pause. They truly are a gift so take your time. Embrace the chill on snow days by taking an opportunity to care for yourself—you deserve it!