Commit to be Fit: Back to school basics to help you ace the rest of 2023

As the sun sets on summer days, many families are preparing for their children to go back to school. Just as students find enthusiasm in new supplies and experiences, adults can also invigorate their lives by updating routines.

Here are some important back-to-school basics to help your family ace” the rest of 2023.

Establish consistent routines and meaningful rituals

Having a routine makes everyone more efficient. Studies show that children perform better with structure and routines — and the same goes for adults. One similarity that almost all successful people have in common: the establishment of routines and habits. Morning routines are particularly impactful. What routine could you add to your morning to encourage and inspire a great day? Setting aside time for meditation, exercise, prayer, journaling, or check-in time with your partner before the day begins are some ideas for creating a meaningful morning routine.

Prioritize restorative sleep

Just as children have earlier bedtimes for the school year, are there any adjustments you would like to make to your bedtime routine to get better sleep? Adequate sleep is the first pillar listed on Deepak Chopra’s “Five Pillars of Radical Well-being.” If possible, try to align your sleep with the universe’s circadian rhythm, sleeping from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Best foot forward

Remember how good it felt when you put on your brand-new back-to-school shoes as a kid? This doesn’t mean that you have to get a new wardrobe to boost your confidence. Sprucing up could mean getting new running shoes, a new haircut, a new workout plan, new scented lotion or perfume, anything that is new to you and that will make you feel refreshed and re-energized.

Stretch your brain

Recent research indicates that the best thing for your brain is to learn something new. Cognitive psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman explains that when you learn a new skill you are strengthening the connections between different parts of your brain. While computerized brain games improve a limited aspect of short-term memory, Kaufman says new and challenging activities strengthen entire networks in the brain.

Organize for efficiency

Just like students prepare to be organized for the new school year, you also can choose to use this time to get yourself organized. Maybe its spending time preparing for taxes, paying bills, keeping up-to-date on car maintenance, or cleaning an area in your house. Dedicating just a little time each day will help you tackle any large task.

Foster meaningful connections

Kids have fun being introduced to and meeting new friends during the school year; maybe it’s a good time for you to seek opportunities to meet new people. Nurturing relationships is vital for abundant health and well-being. Joining or starting a book club or faith sharing group is a great way to foster growth in your relationships.

Just as students enjoy a fresh start with the new academic year, these back-to-school basics have the potential to offer you a brand-new start. Is there an idea from this list that you would like to employ this fall to get a jump-start on a happier and healthier you?

Kylie Alger is a certified wellness coach and co-owner of the Well-Woman: Body, Mind & Spirit. Comments: kylie@thewellwoman.org.