After weeks of kids, pool parties and barbecues, there's a seismic mood shift in autumn, as our engines rev up for going back to school and work. Tension builds, lists are started and suddenly there's just not enough time, says Cindi Williams, a registered counsellor based in Vancouver. "People switch from this organic, creative time to one where time is mandated and there are too many things going on."
But it doesn't have to be like that. This year, change the dynamic as you flip open your calendar to make September a season of fresh energy, new beginnings and (call us crazy) even fun. Check out these ideas to ease your stress this month.
Don't go cold turkey
Maybe you love dining alfresco. Perhaps it's outdoor music festivals or enjoying a morning cup of tea while you read the newspaper. As autumn approaches, make sure you continue a few summertime activities. Plan a weekend barbecue while the September sun still shines, or grab some film festival tickets. And make sure you still sip your tea – scientists at University College London in England found that people's stress levels dropped by an average of 47 per cent when they drank black tea. The risk of heart attack (due to blood platelet activation) was also lower.
Start by going to bed
Kids may love watching late-night movies then sleeping till noon, but it's not conducive to 9 a.m. classes. "Getting to bed on time is important, [but] the most critical anchor is getting them up at a specific time," says Dr. Helen Driver, head of Kingston General Hospital's Sleep Disorders Laboratory in Kingston, Ont. Make it easier by shifting bedtime back 15 minutes a night until everyone's back on track.
Stock up – early!
Don't wait until Labour Day to buy school supplies, says Candace Derickx, co-owner of Best Tools for Schools, an Ottawa-based company that takes orders, then delivers supplies directly to your child's school on the first day. "Shop early," she says. "And don't be fooled by sale prices – they're loss leaders to get you into the store. Stick to your list."
Page 1 of 3 – Learn which foods nutritionist Dr. Joey Shulman recommends eating to fight stress on page 2.
