September signals the end to summer and very quickly reminds us that it’s time to get back to our regular routines. Sometimes this is easier said than done 
Back To Routine After The Summer
With the busy, back to school season underway it is important to set ourselves up for success in navigating this eventful time. Whether it is attending university classes, sending the littles back to the classroom, or just embracing the new fall season and the changes in the air, here are some things to consider:
1. Use scheduling to help. Consider creating a large family calendar, where each member can write in their activities, events, assignments etc. Put the calendar up in a central location in the house so that everyone can see and be aware of it. Constructing it on paper or a white board is helpful, as externalizing information in our visual field this way is best for processing and remembering.
2. Build routine. During summer, bedtimes get extended, sleep ins happen, and parties and events are endless. Getting back to a consistent routine of going to bed and waking up at the same time daily, including joyful movement, and setting boundaries with our time and energy are helpful places to start.
3. Be realistic with expectations. Re-connecting to habits and routine during times of change can be difficult. Be sure to check in with yourself to ensure you are not expecting too much of yourself or your family at once. Success is built slowly and in tiny steps! When we set our expectations of change too high, we set ourselves (and others) not to achieve them.
4. Include positive self-talk. The way we talk to ourselves affects how we feel and how we cope. Intentionally focus on telling yourself and your family positive things about change. Some examples could include: “everyday I am learning and growing”, “I am proud of myself and how hard I’m working”, “I am capable of creating a healthy balance in my life”.
Olivia would love to work with you. She works with Adults, Couples and Youth 13+.
Book your appointment with OLIVIA, here.
Cheers to smooth transitions,
Penney