There’s something sacred about the first morning back.
The alarm feels louder. The coffee tastes stronger. The pace picks up quickly—but the soul? It’s still lingering in the slower rhythm of vacation.
If you’re returning to the classroom or stepping back into your routine today, know this: it’s okay to ease in with intention. You don’t have to hit the ground running. You can walk with purpose instead.
Whether you’re a teacher like me or simply navigating your own full plate, here are a few simple ways to gently recenter as you return:
1. Start with a Morning Anchor
Not every morning can be slow and dreamy—but you can create one small anchor. Light a candle while getting ready. Sip coffee before checking your phone. Whisper a quiet prayer or affirmation while brushing your teeth. Tiny anchors hold big power.
2. Choose a Word for the Week
Rather than resolutions or lists, choose one word to guide you. Today mine is steadfast. Maybe yours is grace, focus, or joy. Write it on a sticky note. Let it be your compass.
3. Tidy One Small Space
It could be your desk, your purse, your car. Order in a small corner often brings clarity in the mind. A quick 10-minute reset can work wonders for your energy and outlook.
As I walk into my classroom today, I’m choosing calm over chaos and presence over perfection. If your return feels overwhelming, pause. Breathe. Remember that you don’t need to have it all together—you just need to take the next right step.
What’s one small shift you can make today to feel more centered?
With coffee in hand and grace in my heart,
Jenny