Teacher Spotlight: HS History Teacher Yao Tan

There's value in learning from others and hearing different perspectives. That's why you'll hear from a High School faculty member in each edition of the Counselor Connection newsletter; your teachers will share ways they practice self-care and prioritize their mental health in the hopes that you may pick up some new ideas of your own. In this issue, we'll touch base with History Teacher Yao Tan.
By Latricia Watkins, HS Counselor

Q: Tell us your name, the subject you teach, and any groups or clubs you sponsor.
A: My name is Yao Tan, and I teach World Civilization and Modern World History in the History Department. I am a cosponsor for the High School Asian affinity group. 
 
Q: Would you consider yourself an extrovert or introvert?
A: I am more introverted because I need alone time to recharge. I love and need my me time. 

Q: What helps you manage your stress levels?
A: I love to eat and experience cultures through ethnic foods around the world, and I love cooking for my family. Cooking is therapeutic and fun, especially when I am learning a new recipe. Chocolate and sweets are my guilty pleasure, and I also love to dance, get absorbed in novels, chat and laugh with my loved ones, watch fun shows on streaming services, and spend quality time with my little family.

Q: How do you make time for yourself week to week?
A: I am intentional about having designated work and family time while setting healthy boundaries. I am grateful to have one to two hours each night devoted to my hobbies and whatever brings me joy. 
 
Q: If you could add something to your self-care routine that you aren't currently practicing, what would that be?
A: I would like to start weaning off coffee and drinking more healthy teas or matcha instead. I want to start doing yoga again too.
 
Q: Do you have a holiday tradition that you share with family or friends?
A: For Thanksgiving, my family eats traditional Thanksgiving food along with a Chinese twist. We also prepare spicy Chinese (Sichuanese) hot pot with over 20 selections of meats and vegetables, and we eat all day. 
 
Q: If you had to choose a beach trip or cabin/ski trip which would you choose?
A: That is a hard question! I enjoy skiing and the mountain scenery for sure, but beach trips are always so relaxing. I love reading on the beach while listening to the waves crashing and playing sand volleyball and water sports. I want to learn how to surf. 
 
Q: What advice would you give to a student that is worried about their mental health state?
A: Find what brings you the most joy and fulfillment while offering a healthy diversion from your life. Managing stress is hard, and oftentimes it is helpful to get things off your chest. Finding someone you trust to open up and share is helpful in getting through the day and week. 
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