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Yoga off the mat

Top 5 Regulating Wonders as We Head Back to School

By September 6, 2024September 8th, 2024No Comments
Hey there, fellow well-being enthusiasts! As a mom of two and the runner of two businesses, I know firsthand how overwhelming the back-to-school season can feel. The start of a new school term stirs up all sorts of emotions in both kids and parents alike. Today, I’m excited to share my top 5 well-being hacks to help children (and their grown-ups!) navigate these emotional waters—because self-care is for everyone, no matter their age.
1. Turn a tantrum into a Marching Party
Ah, those big outbursts and emotional releases— But what if there was a way to turn those chaotic moments into something positive? Enter the “Marching Party.” Instead of just labeling emotions or trying to shut them down, embrace them as energy in motion. When your little ones start shouting or crying, don’t fight it. Crank up some upbeat music and join them in a stomping, marching celebration. A little boogie can work wonders, helping kids release pent-up emotions in a fun, physical way.
2. Brain Bins
Does your mind ever feel like a cluttered mess of thoughts, ideas, and to-do lists? This is where “Brain Bins” come to the rescue. Get some paper and let your kids scribble down all their thoughts—whatever’s on their mind. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to help them offload worries and make sense of their day. Plus, there’s something incredibly cathartic about crumpling up those paper worries and tossing them away like yesterday’s news. Encourage them to journal regularly, and watch as they begin to experience the magic of getting their thoughts out of their heads and onto paper.
3. Tap Out!!!
Say goodbye to traditional time-outs and hello to “Tapping Out”! Rather than having kids sit still and reflect in a corner, invite them to tap away their troubles using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). Imagine them clapping their hands or tapping their fingers rhythmically while repeating positive affirmations. It’s like a mini dance party for the soul, helping to release negative emotions and replacing them with positive energy. Tap, tap, tap those blues away and let the good vibes roll in today!
4. Breathwork with a Twist
We all know that deep breathing is a powerful stress-buster, but getting kids to do it—especially in the heat of the moment—can be tricky. So, let’s make it an adventure! Turn breathwork into a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Tell them to imagine they’re on a thrilling ride: inhale deeply for the climb up, and exhale with a big “whoosh” as they swoop down. This playful approach makes deep breathing fun and helps them manage big feelings with ease.
5. Squeeze and Release
Progressive muscle relaxation isn’t just for adults—it’s perfect for little ones too! Teach your little souls to tune into their bodies and find where they’re holding tension. With each deep breath, have them gently squeeze a muscle group—like their fists or shoulders—and then release it, letting the tension melt away. It’s like giving their bodies a big, warm hug from the inside out. And when in doubt, never underestimate the power of a good hug and rock-it-out session.
These five fun and fabulous well-being hacks will help keep you and your little ones feeling happy, healthy, and oh-so-harmonious.