BACK TO SCHOOL STRESS BUSTERS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

 
​Are you wondering like me, "where did Summer go?" Back to School Time is here and that means changes ahead (and usually some stress) for the entire family. So adding a few mindful and stress relieving practices into your routine can help with the transition back to early mornings and new expectations.  Here are my five favorites.



1.  Legs Up The Wall (or couch): this simple move is great for downregulating the nervous system after an overstimulating day and it is a great transition tool from school to home.  Simply lie down and put your legs up on the couch, ottoman, bed or even up the wall. And just breathe.  I set my timer for five minutes but you choose what works for you.  Come home and everybody...Legs Up! 
2.  Belly Breathing: This practice is great before getting out of bed, before heading out the door or right before getting out of the car or off the bus.  Sit or stand up tall.  Place hands on the rib cage.  Take five deep breaths, inhaling deeply to feel the ribs expand, and exhaling completely.
3. Family Share Time: In the car, at the dinner table or right before bed, everyone takes a moment to share; 1 thing you learned or discovered, 1 thing that made you happy, one thing your grateful for.  This is a great way to check in with each other and find out what's going on in everyone's life.
4. Take a Nature Walk: Get outside, walk around the block, stop by a park. Everyone is spending more time inside when school is in session, so making an effort to have a little outside time before or after school is a great idea.  Use your senses noticing what you feel, smell, see, hear.  Play a game on your walk.  
And last but certainly not least,
5.  Mindfully prepare for the next day:  Pack lunches together, check the weather and pick out clothes, check the back pack and homework log, decide on breakfast (this makes life much easier).  Make sure everything is in a designated location and your ready to go.
Friends, back to school is tough on families.  Give a few of these a try and let me know how mindfulness worked for you. Now, off you go!
 

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