Teaching Abroad in Thailand
Finding Inner Peace While Teaching in Thailand
Sightseeing
But if I’m going to be honest, it’s much more difficult to keep up with my self-care routine when I am abroad. I have a couple of reasons for this and hopefully some of you will find them relatable.
While abroad….
1. You get severe FOMO (fear of missing out) and want to be included in every activity.
This isn’t the same FOMO you get at home folks. This time, you are abroad; the world is your oyster. Not only do you have free time on the weekends to take trips, but during the week the market calls your name, willing you to explore its depths. You feel scared to close your eyes because you might miss an opportunity to see a cool temple or get dinner with the new friends you’ve made.
2. This is not a drill. You really are teaching abroad with kids depending on you in classroom.
People are depending on you to teach English to kids, and to make it super fun. With that being said, if you’re a perfectionist like me it’s easy to find ways to be hard on yourself, especially if you feel like the kids aren’t grasping a certain concept. As a result, you might find yourself working extra hard during break, never giving your body any time to recuperate.
3. You have no idea what balance means anymore.
At home, you are comfortable with your surroundings, which makes it easier to make time for yourself. However, when you travel abroad to teach, you are constantly adjusting to an unfamiliar setting while also adapting to your new school. Everything is new, and therefore self-care gets put on the back burner.
Classroom Games
Rescue Paws
Spending time alone– It’s okay, I promise. Read, write, watch Netflix, lay on your bed and stare at the ceiling, do some yoga poses, or just take a nap. Don’t beat yourself up for missing out on something because there is always something exciting going on.
Treat yourself– Get a massage or a manicure. Find that little cute puppy at the hair salon across from you, cuddle with it and never let it go.
Take actual breaks during your breaks at school – It’s okay to take a breath in between classes. Find the nearest fan if you can and just take a moment to sit and clear your mind.
Be kind to yourself– Make sure you are getting enough sleep and are eating consistently throughout the day. Don’t be so hard on yourself! Stop from time to time and think of how lucky you are to be in such an amazing place, doing something that makes you happy.
Most importantly, check in with yourself. Ask yourself how you’re doing (maybe not out loud).
Show up for yourself. Always.
Sophie Torres
For more from Sophie, head over to her blog here