Practicing Presence: Simple Self-Care Strategies for Teachers

by Lisa J. Lucas

Most teachers enter the field of education to make a difference in children's lives. But many end up, as author Dr. Lisa Lucas puts it, tired, wired, and running in circles. This leads to many new teachers abandoning the profession or to burnout among veteran teachers. In Practicing Simple Self-Care Strategies for Teachers , Dr. Lucas invites the reader to learn how to fully inhabit the present moment. Written in an informal and conversational tone, Practicing Presence is filled with ideas, exercises, checklists, personal anecdotes, and practices you can use to reframe and establish a mindset that will enhance your focus and engagement in the classroom. With approximately 50% of new teachers leaving the education field before the 5-year mark, it is more important than ever for educators to prioritize self-care. Each chapter of Practicing Presence includes self-care strategies that explore how to self-regulate, nurture self-acceptance, and promote compassion. Inside you'll When teachers care for themselves deeply and deliberately, they are better able to care for the people that matter most in their lives'stheir students, friends, and families. Practicing Presence focuses not on doing, but rather on being present in the life of the classroom.

Genres: Professional Development, Education, Self Help, Nonfiction, Teaching

218 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2017

Reviews

[Andrea Lorenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm on a mental health and wellness journey and have stuck my toe into the self-help book waters. This was recommended to me by my director. I found this to be infinitely helpful. It's easy to read thanks to Lucas' conversational writing style, it's practical and very informative. Lucas' strategies are backed up by science (which I appreciate). Though this is intended for teachers, it's general enough that many people will be able to take something from it. I appreciate the focus on positivity and being present in the moment, both things that I've struggled with. I can't recommend this one enough to anyone who wants to start or is interested in mindfulness.

[Christy Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some great tips and tricks to help educators become more present in their lives. Some of it feels like it is gaslighting however as it’s ending stance makes it feel like the author is just saying good teachers just choose to focus on the good. In today’s classrooms, things have gotten to a point that only focusing on the good is a dangerous stance. I can focus on what brings me happiness and the present moment and still acknowledge and advocate for better conditions for students and staff.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I REALLY enjoyed this book. I didn't do a thorough read as I was doing it for a class while on retreat, but I got enough in the quick read that I did to make it worth another read! I love the direction Lisa leans in education. Right up my alley!

[Lisa Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be honest, since I'm the author it isn't quite ethical for me to write a review,however I will say that I am constantly using it as a reference and I wish I had written it 20 years ago!

[Lorrie Morales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great practical advice for veteran teachers (and newbies) to understand the complexity of being a teacher and realizing that there are strategies and balances that can be put in place before burnout.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great strategies for educators. Now more than ever we must be present for our children - but that means we have to take care of ourselves. Love how Lisa presents strategies that help us be present!