Back to School Rules

It’s back to school time. We are finishing our summer break and getting back into a routine. Even those of us no longer in school can use this time to get back into a rhythm.  Understanding how important our rhythms are can reduce stress and increase our feelings of happiness. 

With summer (or known as Pitta season in Ayurveda) we often allow our schedules to get out of alignment. Here are some simple solutions to get back in balance.

Establish a Routine:

·         Having a set time to wake up and go to bed really helps keep the unfocused  on track.

Wake Up With Energy:

·         Early to bed and early to rise is the most effective strategy for overall wellness.  If you waken earlier (by 6:00am at the latest) you will actually have an increase in energy.

·         Start with 10 power breaths before your feet hit the floor. Gives the body energy and releases toxins.

·         Drink 8oz of room (or warm) water before anything else. Hydrates the body, improves elimination, and releases stored toxins.

·         For families, designate the time for you to waken that allows for some self-time. (I am a mom too and know it’s not always easy, but worth it). Then pre-determine what time is best for the kids to waken.

Thrive Instead of Struggle:

Think about this- If you want your family to have intelligence in their learning day- then avoid foods without “intelligence”.  Junk foods, empty calories, high in sugar, and FLUNC foods (remember that’s frozen, leftover, unnatural, nuked, canned) lack the necessary vitamins and nutrients your family needs for a healthy and “intelligent” day. While sleep is necessary for mental development, our diet is the primary focus for positive results.

·         Eat fresh whenever possible

·         Eat from the colors of the rainbow

·         Eat seasonally

·         Plan your meals and your snacks

·         Avoid eating 2 hours before bedtime

From Calm to Chaos

While going back to school gives a family routine, it can also create great demands on a family’s day.

·         Have a designated time and place for homework. (With multiple kids, sports, after school activities, and your work schedule- though it sounds intimidating- set aside the time and place)

·         Designate a place for backpacks, homework, items needing signatures (shoes and keys too!!)

·         Set aside time for play or exercise.  This often goes by the wayside when we have too much on our plate.

·         Determine the nights when you will eat together as a family.

·         Pick out clothes the night before. (This is a habit that will take your kids past school into adulthood!)

·         Start winding down at least 30 min before bedtime. Be aware of what you and your family watch, read, or see late at night. Reduce the white noise in the house if possible before bedtime.

·         Use lavender or vanilla or a warm bath if sleep eludes you.
 

Regardless of how old we are, we are all designed to keep learning and thriving. A routine restores the balance in our body so that we can be less stressed and more present. Take that first step today.