For Teachers: A Walk a Day Keeps the Stress at Bay – Especially in Schools
National Walking Month & Mental Health Awareness Month
Let’s be honest school life rarely slows down, and a walk a day can keep the stress away. Whether you’re teaching, managing behaviour, planning lessons, or juggling a hundred other things before lunchtime, it’s a job that demands a lot. Which is why, this May, we’re making a gentle case for something simple, powerful and free: a daily walk. Because it’s not just National Walking Month it’s also Mental Health Awareness Month, and the two go hand in hand.
Step Away From the Whiteboard
Walking is one of the best de-stressors out there. It clears the head, calms the nervous system, and gives your mind the break it rarely gets during the school day. Even ten minutes can make a difference especially if you’ve just had that Year 9 class.
Morning Miles, Better Mood
If you can squeeze in a short walk before work even just around the block you’ll likely notice the difference. Morning sunlight helps reset your body clock, improves focus and lifts your mood. Walking near greenery (trees, fields, or even that scrappy little park down the road) boosts the feel-good factor even more.
Good for Your Head and Your Heart
During Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s worth remembering just how beneficial walking is for mental wellbeing. It lowers stress hormones, reduces anxiety, and helps to break the cycle of constant overthinking something many school staff are all too familiar with.
No Set Target – Just Start
This isn’t about step-counting pressure. It’s about doing something for you. Whether you clock 1,000 steps on the school run or take a longer walk after dinner, every step is a win. Let your daily target be whatever works for your day no guilt, no competition. And if you’re up for a bit more motivation, join the Walk 1000 Miles challenge. It’s a free, flexible way to track your progress and feel part of something bigger perfect for anyone trying to build healthier habits without the pressure.
So this May, make a little time to walk for your mind, your mood, and your sanity. Your marking pile will still be there when you get back (sorry), but you might just return to it feeling that little bit more human.
Check out more wellbeing tips here.