A new school year can bring so much emotion. Excitement for our little ones to meet new teachers and friends. Our older children can experience nerves as they start new schools. As parents and grandparents, we also experience all these emotions, including stress, as our children enter into new chapters.
Don't let the stress of a new school year bring you down. Use these tips to help you cope with new routines and enter new chapters of your life.
Stress can be caused by a variety of factors, and it can vary from person to person. Here are some ways to help reduce stress in your life:
Tip #1 - More Physical Activity
Regular physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. These endorphins not only help alleviate stress but also combat feelings of anxiety. Engaging in exercise regularly can lead to an overall improvement in mood and a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
Tip #2 - Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet plays a crucial role in managing stress and anxiety. Certain foods, such as those rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds) and foods high in magnesium (like spinach, almonds, and avocados), have been linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety. These nutrients support brain health and help regulate neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.
Exercise and maintaining a healthy diet work hand-in-hand to help reduce stress and anxiety.
Tip #3 - Put Down the Phone
While smartphones, computers, tablets, and iPads can make our lives easier, they can also add a load of anxiety to our everyday lives. Excessive amounts of screen time for adults and children have been linked to increased stress levels. It can also negatively affect our sleep quality. Allow yourself a couple of hours away from the screens.
Tip #4 - Self Care
This tip goes hand in hand with the last tip. Practice some self-care. For some, this could mean putting down the phone/computer and just drowning out the world for a couple of hours. For others, this could mean going for an outside walk. Some other ideas for self-care include taking a bath, lighting a candle, curling up with a good book, or practicing yoga.
It's important to note that these tips can greatly contribute to stress and anxiety reduction. They are not standalone solutions. If you're experiencing persistent stress or anxiety, it's always helpful to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support.
Now is the time for you to take control of your life. Start this new school year and this fall season out as the best version of yourself. Make it your goal to try at least one tip and see how you feel.
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