Blossoms and Books: April Reflections
☀️ Sunny Skies, Endless Revision & the Looming End of the Academic Year
Easter is such a curious time in the academic world. As the days grow longer, the air warms, and the world outside invites us to reconnect - with friends, hobbies, and movement. But just as nature reawakens, the pressure of upcoming exams reminds us that, for many, a significant time is coming to an end.
For students, Easter marks the final stretch before GCSEs, A-Levels, and university finals. It’s not just about exams; it’s the closing of a chapter, one that has shaped friendships, routines, and a sense of belonging. The future, full of promise and uncertainty, looms just beyond the horizon.
This period is equally charged for those who work in education and wellbeing. We stand beside young people until the last moment, equipping them with confidence, skills, and a vision for the road ahead. And then, we let go. We say goodbye—sometimes to entire year groups, to familiar faces, to the rhythms of the past academic cycle. It’s intense and emotional, and, remarkably, we do it all over again each year.
As we navigate this season, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the dedication it takes, not just for students, but for those who support them. Here’s to another season of guiding, inspiring, and ultimately, letting go.
Things to Read
📖 Books
It would be remiss of me to not mention, again, my book in the official release month “A Practical Guide for Working Therapeutically With Teenagers and Young Adults” by HELEN GIFFORD. (Totally unbiased recommendation, of course.)
📖 Journals
I have been guilty of not taking the time to read my BACP and CYPF journals regularly, in fact, the stack of them on the shelf brings a little stab of guilt every time my gaze passes by. However, I took some home and left them in the spot I eat breakfast and have found a new found love for them. Yes, they bring information but also a connection with other professionals which is the real pleasure.
📚 In the non-fiction world...
Similarly, my to-read pile in the non-fiction world has been building up, which is unlike me. I have taken a small break from reading and taken to the screen. I had never seen Mad Men and, very late to the party, just finishing up the last season now. I have been intrigued by the social changes, especially around perceptions of gender and the construct of family. Which has led me to think about the changes in my life time and what is happening now. We are very much living in a time of post Covid where perceptions and priorities have shifted again.
Tools to Try
🌀 Good thing/ Bad thing
In my household when life is busy and it is easy to talk what’s for tea and who used the last bit of toilet roll, we have a tradition of checking in by asking one good thing and one bad thing about the day. Sometimes this brings ‘bigger’ information but often it is something small like having a great jacket potato for lunch. I use this in sessions as well, for some young the beginning of each session remains intimidating, holding that same terror of being asked a question in class. If you go first to answer the question, it normalises the answer being small - which is perfect because people are made up of which cookies they like.
Ideas to Consider
😊 A Perfect Day
I read a lovely Substack recently that suggested a writing prompt of your perfect work day. I discovered that I am seeking a slower, calmer version of what I have now, which is deliciously attainable, not yet, but soon. This could be prompt for a client but maybe try it yourself first.
Resources & CPD to Explore
💡 CPD Opportunity:
I have booked something slightly different for next month, the Newcastle Writing Conference. Unlike my normal CPD, it doesn’t focus on therapy, but it does build on my joy of writing and obsession with the narrative of human life and also leads into my next project.
🎉 Events:
🖥️ Online Book Launch – Wednesday, 9th April
I’ll be chatting with the brilliant Catherine Jackson, journalist & editor specialising in mental health. No cost, just good conversation - join us!
📍 Wellbeing in the West End (North East UK)
Calling all North-East therapists and wellbeing practitioners! Join us for a relaxed networking event at 12.00pm May 1st at Amber Court. I’ll be there, smiling away with my book—hope to see you!
The aim is simple - bring together as many people as possible who offer approaches that promote health and well-being for others, to connect, promote each other and increase our own mechanisms of support around the wonderful work we do! Contact ninaramsay13@gmail.com
Closing Thought
Take a moment to reflect as you step into spring, choose your pace, your boundaries of busy.
Lovely to share a moment with you. 💛🍃