Finding Your Self

Finding Your Self: Supporting the Inner Life of the Teacher

Society demands so much of our teachers today. Schools are expected to deal with a host of social needs, often without adequate funding and support. Many politicians think the solution is to raise standards through additional testing, common core curriculum, and increased scrutiny of teacher performance. The external pressures on teachers and schools are increasing each year, yet few ask the teachers, “What do you need?”

Many studies have shown that the single most important factor in education is the teacher. In Waldorf schools, teachers are encouraged to grow professionally by cultivating inner resources. This booklet is intended to encourage teachers to take care of themselves, meditate, and become a source of inspiration for our students so that together we can address the urgent needs of our time.

About the Author

Torin M. Finser, PhD, has served Waldorf education for more than four decades, first as a class teacher and later as the Director and faculty member of the Waldorf Teacher Education Program at Antioch University New England. A former General Secretary of the Anthroposophical Society in America, he also helped found the Center for Anthroposophy in New Hampshire. His research and writings have reached people all over the world, including several books that have been translated into multiple languages. Torin has served as a consultant, workshop leader, and keynote speaker at numerous conferences. He is married to Karine, has six children, and is also now a very happy grandfather!