Feeling Weary?
The Oxford Language dictionary defines weariness as
extreme tiredness; fatigue.
reluctance to see or experience any more of something.
As the days turn into darkness earlier, holiday season approaches, and kids start to get a little wonky with the anticipation of vacation, educators can begin to feel weary and think, “I’m too tired for any self-care!” or “There’s just not enough time in my day for any self-care!” When you catch yourself thinking any version of these pervasive and controlling first thoughts, your 2nd thought can be, “This is exactly the time I need to prioritize my self-care; all I need is a few minutes! Even 1 minute can do it!” We all need that reminder that we can’t be our best selves for our students, or anyone else, if we don’t prioritize our self-care.
When we are feeling weary, this easy tool helps us: Light a candle. It represents the light at the end of the tunnel. A wonderful time to light a candle is at dusk, when day turns into night. The glow feels warming and comforting, especially during these long winter months.
The act of lighting a candle feels sacred. It marks a moment that is special, a moment to stop and pause. It also sheds light when we feel our world getting darker. It’s one small act in our repertoire of soothing and inspiration.
Read on to find out the therapeutic effects of this simple act.
Calming. The flickering light of a candle is mesmerizing. Candle meditation which involves gazing at the flame while deep breathing, can be a great stress reliever. Take 3 deep breaths as you gaze at the candle's flame. When your eyes get tired, close them and take 3 deep breaths. Continue this for at least 3 cycles. You'll feel the relaxation immediately, even if you only sit for 1 minute!
Mood Elevating. That includes your mood and the mood in your home. Candles create atmosphere and ambience, making your home feel cozy and nurturing. This can help with your mood. If you like scented candles, citrus and rosemary can help promote feelings of happiness.
Positive Memories. Candle lighting helps make them and helps us remember them. Candles are classic symbols of celebrations, a fine meal or honoring a loved one. They symbolize hope, joy and caring. Habit stack lighting a candle lighting to family dinners. Light them every time you sit down together and it symbolizes the start of uninterrupted attention to one another and a delicious meal. Try lighting a candle with your breakfast; it’s a peaceful and comforting way to start your day!
Helps with Sleep. Harsh lights can keep us awake at night. Opt for softer lighting, like a candle to relax by. Lights from screens can interrupt our sleep cycle and create insomnia. Just remember to blow out the candle before going to sleep!
Creates Consistency. There’s something about the ritual of lighting a candle that holds us accountable to what it represents. Connect your candle lighting to a mindfulness practice like meditation or yoga. Connect it to dining or your morning cup of tea. Lighting your candle will prompt you to be consistent with the practice you link it to.
Try burning away your weariness by lighting a candle. Share this with someone who may need some light in their life.
