- After a long, stressful, and demanding school year, I’m finding it really hard to shift into summer mode. My brain won’t stop racing—any tips for how to actually relax and recharge?
You’re not alone—I’m right there with you.
The end of the school year often feels like hitting a wall at full speed. One day it’s nonstop, the next… silence. That sudden shift can be disorienting. And for many of us, it’s tempting to fill the empty space with to-do lists, school prep, or calendar commitments.
But summer isn’t just a break—it’s an invitation.
This is your time to recalibrate. To breathe. To rest. To reconnect.
Let yourself ease into slower mornings—sip your coffee, take a walk, read something life-giving, or sit quietly with God. Rebuild relationships with those who love you most—and with the One Who called you into this work.
And if “shutting it off” completely feels impossible… that’s okay. Try creating a boundary: set aside one or two small blocks of time each week to jot down ideas, check in on email, or plan ahead, without letting it overtake your rest. Let it be intentional, not intrusive.
Your summer is not a shutdown—it’s a reset.
And you’ve earned it.
Have you ever struggled to shift into summer mode after a busy school year? What helps you slow down and truly rest?
Share your ideas in the comments below—we’re building a community of educators who support one another in rest and renewal, not just hustle and hard work.
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4 Responses
I view summer as a chance to arm myself spiritually. Even though I am preparing for a battle, it helps to relax and calm myself. Every morning I spend as much time as I want reading the Bible, studying the Bible, praying and listening to g to sermons from my favorite preachers. I do this while I am in my hot tub or floating in my pool or just sitting outside and enjoying the backyard. After that, I work on my summer to-do list.
Bonnie-great tips and suggestions in reflection of the past year and preparation for the one to come. Thanks for sharing!
Within the first week of summer break, I always plan a coffees with my two close friends. This year I went to the beach for the day with one of them. It was a wonderful day of reconnecting with her as well as with the Lord through the awesome gift of creation that is the ocean and all its beauty. I recommend both of these activities to get into the summer relaxation as soon as you can.
Diann, helpful suggestions-appreciate you sharing!