You’ve already seen that Target is tearing down the garden section and starting to put the back to school stuff there. Back to school season is often full of excitement and anticipation. Maybe you’re getting your little one ready for kindergarten, or your youngest ready for high school. New classes, shiny new school supplies, and the promise of a new school year bring a buzz of excitement to houses everywhere.
It also means long lines, crowded stores, and endless decision making can make August stressful. The pressure a parent can feel can take its toll, leading to feeling fatigued and stressed.
With the right strategies, you can avoid some of the pitfalls you might encounter. You can say good-bye to shopping fatigue, and hello to a more enjoyable back-to-school season.
Prepare and Make a plan for the shopping trip
1. Make a list. Often you find your class or grade level list through your school’s website. Download it, print it out, and put it in your purse or phone for easy access. Having a list will keep you organized and you’re less likely to forget essential items.
2. Set a budget. Preparing financially for back to school can ease a lot of stress. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allocate your funds accordingly. It also keeps you from impulse buying.
3. Shop during off peak times. If you enjoy the actual shopping, but hate the crowds, go first thing in the morning or an hour before closing. You’ll miss huge crowds during those times. Or, take advantage of online shopping. You can get it all delivered to your doorstep, or drive to the store and use the curbside pick up option. This can help save time and energy while also avoiding navigating crowded aisles.
Beat Shopping Fatigue During the shopping trip
4.Dress comfortably. This isn’t the time to wear your work heels and power suit, it’s a time for comfort. Wear your most comfortable shoes. And wear breathable, loose fitting clothes.
5.Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Carry your water bottle with you. Staying hydrated can keep your energy level high, lessen the chance of headaches, and keeps you feeling refreshed.
6.Take breaks. Shopping for long stretches all at once can be stressful. Grab a coffee at a cozy little cafe between stores. Or, grab a relaxing lunch with a friend. This will give your feet and your mind a much needed break from back-to-school shopping.
7. Practice mindful shopping. Stay present during your shopping trip. Avoid just mindlessly rushing from item to item on your list and throwing it in your basket. Take your time to make thoughtful decisions about your purchases. Pay attention to how your body feels and listen when it’s telling you to take a break. If you do start to feel overwhelmed, take some deep yoga breaths.
Post Shopping Self Care
8. Treat yourself with a massage. After a long day of shopping, massage therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Massage not only eases stress, but it can help relieve pain. A professional massage can target your sore muscles, increase blood flow to sore areas and you’ll feel more relaxed afterwards. Giving yourself permission to book a massage will allow you to recover from a long day of shopping, and you’ll be more prepared for the first day of school.
9.Stretching exercises. Give yourself some at home physical therapy. Focus on exercises that will target your low back and calves. These are the muscles that often bear the brunt of standing and walking all day long. Stretching can help lessen muscle aches, improve flexibility and increase blood flow. After some post shopping stretching, your muscles will thank you.
10. Hydrotherapy. Taking a long relaxing shower or bath can be the perfect way to unwind after a long day of shopping. Hydrotherapy (the use of water for therapeutic purposes) can be incredibly soothing to sore muscles. Hot water can help ease sore muscles, increase circulation, and help calm your mind. Consider using some mild aromatherapy or Epsom salts as well for an extra layer of relaxation. There’s a reason my Olympic athletes often use hot tubs for recovery. It’s a simple and effective way to care for your body.
Regular Self Care Practices During the School Year
Making monthly massage appointments can be incredibly beneficial for your physical and mental well-being. Scheduling massages regularly can help with muscle flexibility and reduce your stress levels. Regular massages can also help ease chronic muscle pain and help you sleep better. By making massage therapy a regular part of your wellness practice, you create a dedicated time for relaxing, unwinding and pain relief.
Engaging in at home relaxation techniques can be a simple and effective way to relieve daily stress. Doing things like meditation, doodling, journal writing offer a creative outlet and gives your mind a break. Meditation can help ease anxiety and improve focus. Doodling or drawing can help you relax. Journaling can help you process deep emotions and gain clarity. Incorporating activities like this daily can help foster a sense of inner peace and well being.
Embracing healthy lifestyle choices is the key to longevity and overall wellness. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining bodily functions, supporting skin health, and aiding in digestion. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps with mental clarity and prevents fatigue. Choosing healthy foods supports your immune system. Eating a balanced diet ensures that you’re fueling your body properly. Regular exercise is vital for maintaining physical fitness, reducing stress and giving your mood a boost. It doesn’t matter what form of exercise you do, as long as you’re consistent and you enjoy it.
Remember that as the back to school season gets under way, that planning ahead, being mindful and getting some post shopping self care can go a long way with helping you feel grounded and less stressed.
Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. By following these tips, you can navigate back to school with ease and ensure that your family starts the school year on a positive note. Here’s to a successful school year.
