The school holidays are a time for relaxation, fun, and, let's face it, a break from the usual routine. But now that the kids are heading back to school, it’s time for mums to shift gears and get back on track with their own health and wellness goals. After weeks of indulgence, late nights, and a more relaxed schedule, it can feel overwhelming to restart your healthy habits. But with the right approach, you can ease back into a balanced routine without stress. Here are some practical tips to help you get back to a healthy lifestyle after the school holidays:
1. Start Slow and Set Realistic Goals
The first step in getting back into a healthy routine is to set manageable, realistic goals. If you’ve been off track for a while, jumping straight back into a strict workout schedule or extreme diet may not be sustainable. Instead, start small by setting achievable targets for the week, such as 20 minutes of exercise a day or eating at least one serving of vegetables with each meal. Gradually build on your goals over time as your body and mind readjust.
2. Re-establish a Morning Routine
Mornings set the tone for the day. After the holiday chaos, creating a morning routine that focuses on your needs can help you reclaim some quiet, focused time before the kids are up and about. Start with something simple like a glass of water to hydrate, a few minutes of stretching, or even a brief meditation to center yourself. A calm and organized start to the day can boost your productivity, reduce stress, and set you up for success.
3. Meal Prep for Success
During the school holidays, you may have found yourself snacking on sweets or grabbing quick, less nutritious meals. Getting back into a healthy routine means being prepared. Meal prepping is a game-changer, as it saves time and ensures that you have healthy options readily available. Spend some time over the weekend planning and preparing meals for the week. Batch-cook healthy meals, chop veggies, or portion out snacks, so you’re not tempted by unhealthy alternatives when hunger strikes.
4. Move Your Body Every Day
Exercise doesn't have to mean an hour-long gym session. The goal is simply to move your body every day. Whether it’s a walk around the block, a short yoga session, or a home workout video, find something that feels doable and enjoyable. Involve your kids by turning activities into family fun, such as a weekend bike ride or a dance party in the living room. Finding joy in movement will make it easier to stick with it, even on the busiest days.
5. Prioritise Sleep
During the holidays, your sleep schedule might have been all over the place. Now that the kids are back at school, it’s time to focus on getting quality sleep. Try to establish a consistent bedtime routine for both you and the kids. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night to feel refreshed and energized. Quality sleep is essential for your physical and mental well-being, helping you feel more motivated and alert during the day.
6. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water when you're busy, but hydration is key to maintaining energy levels and supporting overall health. Start your day with a glass of water and keep a refillable bottle with you throughout the day. If plain water isn’t your thing, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint to enhance the flavour and encourage yourself to drink more.
7. Practice Self-Care
It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of school runs, meal prep, and daily responsibilities, but self-care is crucial for mums. Make time for activities that relax and recharge you, whether it's reading, enjoying a warm bath, or practicing mindfulness. When you take care of your own well-being, you'll have more energy and patience to care for your family too.
8. Be Kind to Yourself
Finally, remember that getting back into a routine takes time and it’s okay if things don’t always go as planned. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a workout or indulge in a treat. Healthy living is all about balance, not perfection. Celebrate your wins, however small and keep moving forward with a positive mindset.
By gradually making small positive changes to your routine, you’ll set yourself up for success and feel more energised, focused and balanced as you navigate the busy school year. It’s all about finding what works for you and creating a sustainable routine that you can enjoy and stick with long-term.
Here's to a healthy and happy start to the new school term!