July First Self-Care Toolkit for Educators

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Hey, hey Chalkboard fam — it’s JULY FIRST! Can you believe it? We are officially halfway through 2025. I’m Candice, and you’re listening to the July First Self-Care Toolkit episode of Chalkboard Chatter. I hope you’ve got your iced matcha or maybe a lemonade, because today is all about pressing pause, taking a breath, and giving yourself a little love. July first is more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a checkpoint, a reset, a moment to look back and look ahead. So here’s what we’re getting into today: I’ll share a little about a powerful experience at the table with some amazing educators, talk about how my daily walks have been changing my life, serve up a metaphorical “dish” for your soul, check in on my summer playlist, chat about July style — nails, hair, all of it — and then, the big one, I’m giving you my full July 1 pep talk: twelve ways to pamper yourself this summer. And of course, we’ll wrap up with a little encouragement and a call to action. Sound good? Let’s get into it.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

So, let me start with something that’s been on my heart. This month, I had the absolute honor of sitting on a statewide selection committee. And y’all, it was one of the most engaging, inspiring tables I’ve ever been at. Picture this: educators — all in one room, all bringing their best ideas, their real stories, their passion for making things better. I left that room feeling heard, challenged, and honestly, just grateful. We don’t always get spaces like that, right? Where you can show up as your full self, learn from others, and know you’re part of something bigger. It reminded me of what we talked about in earlier episodes — how important it is to find your people, your community, and to savor those moments when you get to collaborate and grow. If you ever get a chance to be at a table like that, take it. Those conversations? They fill you up in ways you don’t even realize until you walk out the door.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Now, switching gears a little — let’s talk about movement. I’ve been on a mission lately: daily walks in the park, five days a week. And let me tell you, walking works. I used to wake up with all these little aches and creaky joints — you know, that teacher life, always on your feet, always moving. But since I started these walks, those aches? Gone. Melted away. I feel lighter, my energy is up, and my mind is so much clearer. There’s something about being outside, letting your body move, breathing in that fresh air — it’s like a reset button for your soul. And it doesn’t have to be fancy. Just a pair of sneakers, a little time, and a willingness to let your mind wander. I know we’ve talked about self-care and wellness in past episodes, but I’m telling you, this is the simplest, most powerful thing I’ve done for myself in a long time. If you’re looking for a way to feel better, start with a walk. It’s not just about the steps, it’s about giving yourself permission to move, to breathe, to just be.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Alright, let’s serve up today’s “dish” — and I’m not talking about food, at least not the kind you eat. Today’s dish is “Joy in slow sips.” I was talking with Vern about this, and we both agreed: we’re so used to gulping down life, rushing from one thing to the next, always on a countdown. But what if we just… slowed down? What if we let ourselves savor the little things — a popsicle on the porch, a song you forgot you loved, a laugh that catches you off guard? That’s your joy. Sip it slowly. I know, it sounds simple, but it’s actually kind of radical. We spend so much time planning, prepping, worrying about what’s next — sometimes we forget to just enjoy what’s right in front of us. So today, I’m encouraging you to find your “slow sip” moment. Whatever it is, let yourself enjoy it, no guilt, no rush. That’s the real nourishment.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Speaking of joy, let’s talk music. If you want to know how I’m surviving summer, just check my playlist. Music is medicine, baby. Right now, I’ve got a mix that lifts me up, centers me, and lets me feel all the layers of joy, nostalgia, and power that make me, well, me. I’m talking “This Battle is the Lord’s” by Yolanda Adams, “Yes” by Shekinah Glory Ministry, “Nothing Can Come Between Us” by Saa-de, and “As” by Stevie Wonder. And you know I’ve got some old-school rap in there — A Tribe Called Quest, Salt-N-Pepa, and of course, New Edition’s “Can You Stand the Rain.” Oh, and Mariah Carey? “Fantasy” and “Vision of Love” are on repeat. This playlist? It’s my mood-setter, my healer, my motivator. If you haven’t made a summer playlist yet, I highly recommend it. Find those songs that make you feel alive, that remind you of who you are, and let them carry you through the season.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Okay, let’s get into some summer style talk — because looking good and feeling good go hand in hand. When it gets hot, I need everything breezy, low maintenance, but still fly. For nails, I’m loving coral peach, summer lilac, clear gloss with gold flakes, and mint green for the toes. It’s all about colors that pop and make you smile when you look down. And hair? Whew, you know I’m not about to let this heat get the best of me. High buns with edge swoops, box braids in a bob, twist-outs that actually last, and silk scarves for a little flair and protection. The key is letting your scalp breathe and your style shine. I really believe personal style is a form of self-care — it boosts your confidence, makes you feel at ease, and lets you express who you are. So don’t be afraid to try something new, switch it up, and let yourself feel cute and comfortable all summer long.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Alright, here we go — the heart of today’s episode. July first isn’t just a date, it’s a checkpoint. A breath, a pause, a reset. And before you even start thinking about “back to school,” staff meetings, or classroom themes, I want you to think about you. Not the teacher, not the partner, not the parent — just you. It’s so easy to forget that we’re allowed to feel good, just because. So here are twelve ways to pamper yourself this month — no guilt, no shame, all joy. Number one: Travel somewhere, even if it’s local. You don’t need a passport stamp to feel refreshed. A two-hour road trip, a scenic hike, or a cute bed-and-breakfast can shift your whole energy. Change your scenery, and you’ll feel your mind open up. Number two: Try a new hairstyle. There’s nothing like catching your reflection after a fresh style and thinking, “Who is she?!” Let your hair match your mood — free, fresh, and fabulous. Number three: Book a massage package. Seriously, not a single knot in your back deserves to survive July. You work too hard for your shoulders to be up to your ears all the time. Call the spa, say yes to the package, and let yourself relax. Number four: Get a pedicure. Let those feet feel fabulous. You’ve been in those classroom shoes too long. Sandals are out, pool days are in, and your toes deserve to sparkle. Number five: Treat yourself to a solo dinner. There’s something luxurious about sitting at a table alone with your favorite dish. You order what you want, eat at your own pace, people-watch, and reconnect with yourself. Bonus points for dessert. Number six: Meet up with an old friend. Summer is the perfect time to revive those connections that make your heart feel full. Reach out, laugh like it’s 2010 again, and remind yourself of who you’ve always been. Number seven: Make a new friend. I know, adult friendships are hard, but they’re magical. Say yes to that coworker brunch invite, compliment someone at the farmer’s market, be open. You never know who could walk into your life with joy and a shared playlist. Number eight: Take a break from thinking about school. Don’t do it. Don’t open Pinterest, don’t peek at your teacher’s cart. Your mind needs distance to be creative again later. This month is about you, not bulletin borders. Number nine: Start a “Me Journal.” Not a to-do list, not a gratitude list — a Me Journal. Write about what you want, what you’re dreaming of, what you’re scared of, what you love about your life right now. Make it messy, make it yours. Number ten: Buy that thing you’ve been eyeing. We all have that one thing in our cart — that dress, that speaker, that kitchen gadget. If it brings you joy and fits your budget, buy it. Your joy is a worthy expense. Number eleven: Declutter one space. I’m not saying go full Marie Kondo, but pick one small space — your desk, a drawer, your bathroom counter. Clean it, organize it, light a candle, and bask in the calm that follows. And number twelve: Do absolutely nothing — and enjoy it. You are allowed to lie in bed on a Tuesday at 2 PM, watching reruns, eating mango slices, and not feel bad. You are allowed to do nothing — and still be worthy, productive, loved, and amazing. Listen, you are a miracle walking. You spend all year pouring into others — this is your time to be poured into. July is about presence. So go ahead and celebrate what makes you unique. Pamper yourself like your inner child has been waiting for it. You are not “on break.” You are in bloom. And that’s worth everything.

Candice Nicholson (Jackson)

Alright, Chalkboard fam, that’s it for our July First Self-Care Toolkit! Today we talked about the power of collaboration, the healing magic of daily walks, savoring joy in slow sips, letting music lift your spirit, and how a little style can go a long way. Most importantly, I hope you take these twelve ways to pamper yourself and actually try one — or all of them! Remember, you deserve to slow down, treat yourself, and let yourself bloom. I’d love to hear how you’re pampering yourself this month — share your stories, tag us, or drop a comment. And don’t forget, we’ve got more episodes coming your way, so stay tuned. Until next time, stay hydrated, stay radiant, and remember: you are more than enough. See you soon!