There are two especially hectic times during the school year for teachers, and I’m currently in the middle of the busiest one. The last few weeks are packed with deadlines, events, and extra responsibilities. During this stretch my workouts often disappear, sleep gets cut short, and meals are skipped. Those three things quickly combine to leave me irritable and hungry—what some call “hangry.” Over time I’ve developed a few practical habits to help steady my energy and mood when the season gets intense.
- Drink more water. When stress ramps up I typically stop drinking enough water. Reintroducing plain water into my routine helps curb hunger pangs and improves focus. I find iced water with a slice of lemon in the morning and again in the afternoon is an easy habit to sustain and immediately refreshing.
- Insist on breakfast. Skipping the first meal of the day guarantees an afternoon crash. Even a quick smoothie or a simple toast-and-eggs while commuting keeps my blood sugar steadier and prevents the 3 p.m. slump of irritability and hunger. A consistent breakfast helps me get through busy mornings with clearer thinking.
- Eat more protein. Prioritizing protein at every meal and snack makes a big difference. Protein helps stabilize glucose levels and extends satiety, so I can stay productive longer between meals without energy spikes and crashes.
Silk Soymilk is one convenient way to add protein into a busy day. With about 8 grams of protein per serving and a lactose-free formula, it’s easy to mix into breakfasts and smoothies. It contains no cholesterol, dairy, or high-fructose corn syrup, and it doesn’t rely on artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
My favorite way to use Silk is in a smoothie. This Lemon Freeze smoothie is particularly nice on busy summer mornings—light, refreshing, and quick to prepare.
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup frozen lemon concentrate
- 1 cup Silk Soymilk
- 1 cup vanilla frozen yogurt
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. This makes a bright, tangy drink you can sip while heading out the door or enjoy between tasks to refuel quickly.
When the school year gets intense, small, consistent habits—hydration, a reliable breakfast, and protein at each meal—help me stay calmer and more productive. Simple tools like a protein-rich soymilk smoothie make it easier to maintain those habits without adding time to an already full schedule.
This conversation is sponsored by Silk. The opinions and text are my own.