It’s that time again when the summer holidays draw to a close and the children head back to school.  I know most of you have first hand experience and have had a busy summer with your children and grandchildren.  Hats off to you all for keeping them happy and entertained for 6 long weeks.

While back to school season may signal excitement for most kids, for many parents it means stressful and expensive shopping trips, a change in schedules and managing new family schedules after the long summer break.

Getting the children ready for a new school year is a time of transition for most families, from re-establishing a solid routine to fighting the battle over what they want to wear each morning.  My advice is to make a plan and stick to it. A good bedtime routine and getting outfits ready the night before is a great way to minimise rushing around in the morning.

As you begin to feel normality creep back in, remember to take time out for yourself.  By keeping your activity levels up your body releases the chemical endorphin which triggers a positive feeling of well being.

Regular exercise has been proven to help:

  • Reduce stress
  • Ward off anxiety and feelings of depression
  • Boost self-esteem
  • Improve sleep

Exercise also has these added health benefits:

  • It strengthens your heart
  • It increases energy levels
  • It lowers blood pressure
  • It improves muscle tone and strength
  • It strengthens and builds bones
  • It helps reduce body fat
  • It makes you look fit and healthy

Pilates classes are a great way to combine the physical and mental benefits of exercise on the whole body.  Fitness for the body and mind.