Kocurek Counseling Update
Staff Self-Care
I'm here for you!
As I sit here in my stretchy pants, glasses, and uncombed hair, I can't help but think about each and every one of you. I miss you! We didn't have a chance to fully grasp the severity of how quickly this situation would escalate. We didn't get a chance to wish each other a happy spring break. We didn't get a chance to hug our students and tell them we can't wait to see them in a week.
I want to make sure all of you are taking care of yourselves during this time and decided to compile a few resources and things you may find helpful.
YOU matter
Remember that image we always see about putting the oxygen mask over your nose first before assisting someone else? Essentially, this metaphor encourages us to help others. It stresses the importance of being able to be there for others in their time of need. But who are you going to help if you can't breathe? No one.
Please remember, especially if you are taking care other others while at home, to take care of yourself during this time.
Self-Care
There are SO many types of self-care! Read the article below to learn about each and gain some new ideas you can easily do in the comfort of your own home.
Try to pick at least one way to self-care a day!
Mindfulness
All students PK-5th have received at least 5 mindfulness lessons so far this year (1x a month) and we have had 5 staff mindfulness opportunities this year as well.
Simply stated, mindfulness is the practice of being in the here and now. It's letting go of thoughts of the past and future, and bringing awareness to the present moment.
I don't know about you, but with the news constantly updating about the current situation every hour, mindfulness seems like a perfect outlet for all of us right now.
Below are some ideas to incorporate mindfulness in your day.
One Minute Mindfulness
All you need is 60 seconds and the promise to yourself that for those seconds, you'll just be present in the moment. There are so many ways to slow down your hectic life and empty your mind.
Read the article below for 9 simple mindfulness techniques that can help you relieve stress and bring calm to your life.
21 Day Meditation Challenge
Want to try meditation on your own but not sure how to start??
Read the article below to get introduced to the basics of meditation and receive precise instructions and practical advice on how to start your meditation journey.
Yoga
Join Austin's own, Yoga with Adriene on YouTube!
I learned about this in the January Mindfulness Newsletter from James Butler and let me tell you, wow! I started with her 30 Days of Yoga playlist and never looked back.
It's free. 100% on the house. No catch. No trial run. This is a real opportunity to gift yourself with something special. An experience that could just change the course, transform your body, balance your brain, and heal your heart. This gift does not expire!
Designed for all levels. Really. Created for the complete beginner to the advanced yogi.
Journaling
Mindful journaling or Meditative writing is the act of expressively examining what is in your head and in your heart.
Mindful journaling is the time to confront your thoughts, explore your curiosities, and face your feelings head on. Reflection is such an enormous part of your growth, and when you journal, you get out of your head and become present.
Click on the article below to get tips on how to begin a mindful journaling practice.
Caring for You App
Caring for You is a free app with a wealth of articles to help you build wellness skills and healthy habits. We help you explore the importance of self-care. Learn how to worry less, challenge negative self-talk, clarify your values, and set goals that fill your life with meaning and progress.
Prioritize your mental health!
Reminder: Calm, Headspace, and Stop Breathe Think offer FREE subscription services for educators.
Austin ISD's Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
The Austin ISD EAP helps take care of the emotional needs of all AISD employees and our loved ones.
All EAP services are available 24/7, and are 100% free and confidential for all AISD employees. Contact 1-800-962-9480 to access any of the EAP services.
Revive EAP gives employees access to the following services:
- Counseling Support
- Legal & Financial Support
- Daily Life Assistance
Drum-roll please!
I wrote another STAAR song this year, well...actually two (of course I did LOL!)
One is a duet featuring, you guessed it--our very own Mr. Frier!
The plan was to put both up online and have a vote to determine which would be the song. There was even talks of making a video this year.
No worries though...I'm allllready working on a 4 song medley for next year. Get ready!
Ready To Take The STAAR Test lyrics
You Need To Slow Down lyrics
Kocurek Elementary School
Website: https://www.kocurekelementary.com/
Location: 9800 Curlew Drive, Austin, TX, USA