THE CAPITAL OF YOGA

To bring down high stress levels in teachers and parents, schools in the city have devised novel ways to help them cope with the pressure. From yoga classes to regular counselling sessions, teachers are being treated to a host of activities to soothe their nerves. As teachers bask in their new found importance, the school authorities feel destressing is essential for optimum performance.

Dr Rakesh Sachdeva, principal of DAV Model School, Sector 15, said: 'We conduct regular yoga classes for our teachers as it helps in calming the mind. It is important to provide them a break from the routine so that they are able to rejuvenate themselves.'

The school also organises a havan on the premises every month. 'Students, teachers as well as parents participate in the prayers. Even the Vedas talk of its calming effects on the mind,' adds Sachdeva.

Workshops on time management, stress management and parenting by psychologists have also become the norm in schools.

'Teaching is not as easy as it appears to be. We are under tremendous pressure to perform and when one has to look after students of different levels from varied backgrounds, anxiety levels are bound to rise,' said Sanjay Sardana, director of Manav Mangal Smart School.

The school also organises special basketball and handball tournaments for teachers to help them unwind. 'We also screen movies for teachers and students in the school auditorium and hold meditat ion camps,' he added.

'It is no child's play to bring up a child. And in the current times, when expectations from both the sides are high, it has become a stressful job. We invite psychologists to guide parents on the finer nuances of parenting. The workshops are beneficial for both parents and children,' said Punita Singh of Carmel Convent School.

Anu Chaudhary of Vivek High School agrees. 'Counselling sessions help parents and children emerge from their cocoons to address a problem clearly. It also helps in bettering strained ties.'

By CHHAVI BHATIA

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