Weekend Recharge

SLPs, teachers, other allied professionals and so many others out there are fighting burnout from our jobs. We pour so much of ourselves in each and every week to caring, counseling, advocating, documenting, mentoring, etc., and sometimes it feels like we still aren’t doing enough. I certainly don’t claim to have all the answers how to most effectively combat burnout, but here are some things I like doing to take care of myself and separate from the career mindset.

Reading/streaming. Losing myself in a good story, written or televised, is a much welcomed mental break. Bonus points when it’s something low stress, inspirational, comedic, or just wholly unrelated to my daily life.
Recently Watched: Taskmaster, Mindy Project, New Girl, Queer Eye, MasterChef, Survivor.
Recently Read: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Carrie Soto is Back, The Power of Now, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.

Hobbies. Getting back into a hobby can feel like another job itself or large financial commitment. Sometimes I just need a couch day, and I totally honor that! But other days, I pull out my old guitar or keyboard, put on my rollerblades or go for a hike.

Exercise. I always laugh at those “stupid walk for my stupid mental health” videos, because they’re so accurate. Every time I’m preparing to exercise, I am convinced that I am going to feel MISERABLE the whole time, it’s going to be so awful, boring, un-helpful and within 5 minutes, I’m like WOW this is the best thing I’ve ever done. Walks, hikes, yoga, swimming, and dancing are my favorite ways to get in movement, even when I think I’m going to regret it.

Scrolling. I spend so much time trying to not be the person that is addicted to their phone. But sometimes, I just own it. Tiktok can be funny. Instagram can be fun to keep up with friends. Pinterest can be inspirational for my next outfit, room design, or haircut. I do get stuck sometimes, and I’m trying to work on that as well, but that’s for another time. I acknowledge the mental rest that can be gained from a good scroll sesh.

Writing or journaling. For me, this is such a great way to organize all the things spiraling around my brain. Sometimes I write things that I plan to share with others, sometimes it’s just for myself. Either way, getting the words out can be so beneficial.

Catching up. I know I can’t be the only SLP that loves to talk. Whether its a phonecall, facetime, or dinner, I love catching up with family and friends to share stories, thoughts, ideas. Though for me, sometimes the couch crash definitely needs to come first before I can dive into socializing.

Outside time. Watching the sunset, going to the pool, laying in the hammock, sitting on the back porch going for a picnic. All of these things are heavily weather dependent but I try my best to take advantage when we have the opportunity.

What are your favorite way to recharge?