FEATURES
HALF TERM IS HER W
ow wow wow, it only seems like 5 minutes ago the kids started back at school again and now we are what seems like days away from another 2 week half term break!!! Argggghhhh I hear you cry! But do not stress, coping with this is just about 3 P’s planning, planning, planning. When holidays are on the horizon and you're thinking a UK staycay is on the cards the only way to manage and live to see another day is to act like it’s a military operation and get everything organised to keep the kids happy and the stress at bay. So, whether you're a single dad, a mum of 4 or whatever, I am coming to the rescue with ideas and strategies to get you through this October half term time until the Christmas lights go up and we can all relax, NOT!!!! Where do we start, how can I get this done without tearing my hair out and literally shouting at everyone, apart from your boss of course, as that will cause more problems?!
So planning planning planning… first up to sit up and think. This might seem a little odd but actually if you sit, breathe deeply and are quiet for a little time then ideas can pop up in your head that maybe would not have had a chance to manifest in amongst the crazy busy minds we all have. Once you're sitting quietly, somewhere relaxing and quiet perhaps write a plan for each day and how you might fill these with fun for everyone. Surrey Rocks has a great monthly Events Calendar and What’s On page so you can be strategic and formalise a really great plan full of fun stuff for the kids, which can make half term easier and calmer for everyone. In the lead up to this next holiday break plan and organise as much self-care as you can for yourself. If that’s a manicure, a spa day, a walk in your favourite spot, a lunch with a good friend or even grabbing the latest best seller and curling up to read the entire book in a few sessions. Whatever it is, by doing this you will be feeding your soul and allowing yourself the ability to prepare for a busy couple of weeks with all the family. Did you know sitting calmly and breathing slowly will reduce the stress hormone cortisol and reduce your blood pressure as well. Basically, a great way to focus and feel better in an easy peasy way. Plus, you may find it will help stop you getting irate at the kids when they’ve trashed the house again! Next up is your energy levels. In order to smash this autumn holiday you need bags of it. Improved energy takes time to build up so start as soon as you can. First things first is diet. Clean up your diet by reducing sugar, high fat foods and fill up instead on fruit, vegetables and whole foods. Salads with chickpeas for protein and lots of greens is a great one. Or if the weather is chilly how about a vegetable lasagne, so easy and great for all the family and can even stretch to more than one meal. Sleep is another way to improve your energy levels, get to bed earlier and if you struggle getting to bed or sleeping there are several ways to improve this. Stretching or yoga before bed,
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