The heat of summer is knocking on our door encouraging us to slow down… Over scheduling is one of the top causes of stress for children, teens and adults…

This summer as you schedule camps, trips, tutoring and work make a point of scheduling relaxation or down time. Scheduling just 5-10 minutes a day to de-stress can lower anxiety levels for you and your children.

Not sure how to relax or de-stress?
Try doing nothing for a few minutes. Sit still and when your kids ask what you are doing; tell them you are playing the nothing game. You can set a timer and see who can do nothing for a few minutes. Even one minute of sitting still is more than you had before. Remember, to go with the flow when someone burst out laughing instead of being silent….laugh along and try again…..remember laughter is a great stress reducer!

Prefer laughing as a stress reducer?
Pick up a bottle of bubbles and a bubble wand.
Kids and adults love blowing bubbles! It is inexpensive, relaxing and so much fun you will end up laughing. You could even sneak in relaxing belly breathing to see if a slow, steady breath produces bigger bubbles.

Want to de-stress and make an impact on your teen?
You have shown them how to time manage, be productive and over extend yourself. They are most likely doing all of the above at a teen level. Now give them the gift of relaxation. Demonstrate sleeping in, staying in your pajamas or exchanging foot rubs. Be careful to fully enjoy yourself and do not show guilt or criticize yourself for making the choice to relax. Creating a relaxed atmosphere can open doors to your teen’s heart.

Want your children to have a better year at school?
Data collected by the Mind Body Medical Institute shows that children introduced to relaxation techniques experience an increase in test scores, attendance and cooperation. Reports from children who have worked with relaxation techniques have stated that they are happier, more alert and less frustrated. My own students have told me that they “feel calm and focused”. These students have implemented life long skills of relaxation and self-management. They have become active participants in creating their own healthy, calm, peaceful lives.

This summer when you open your front door and feel the heat of summer…..let it remind you to slow down relax and de-stress!

Happy summer to you and your family!