Here are a few tips to help you manage the back-to-school period and ensure your children's peace of mind and digestive comfort!
1. Get moving!
Get moving at every opportunity! Whenever possible, come home from school by walking, running, stopping at the park or cycling with your kids!
Why is that? Because the simple act of moving helps to channel the adrenaline released in the body. What's more, physical activity releases serotonin and endorphins, which contribute to a sense of well-being.
2. Breathe in!
Discover breathing techniques that help regulate the nervous system. Cardiac coherence is one example (a children's version is available).
3. Get some fresh air!
Just being out in nature lowers blood cortisol levels! Cortisol in itself isn't bad: it keeps you awake and stimulated! However, too much all the time is like not enough! In short, go out and play to help regulate it!
4. Try journaling
Putting your worries in writing helps to clear the air and reduce tension. Set aside a quiet moment with your child to discuss his day and yours! Write down difficulties, fears, emotions and stress. Conclude with the small positive moments of the day. The brain is like a sponge, and by focusing on the positive, we can see life in a much brighter light!
5. Dance and sing!
Stimulation of the vagus nerve, which connects the intestine to the brain, will be immediate and will enable you to better control stress. In short, learn to let go of your madness, whether it's on the way home, in the shower or preparing supper!
These tips are equally applicable to everyone! Give them a try!
6. Optimize your diet!
Stress and intestinal microbiota
In addition to containing hundreds of millions of nerve cells, the intestine constantly communicates with the brain and vice versa.
Calming your mind calms your bowels.
A healthy gut means better stress management.
This improved stress management allows the intestine to perform at its best!
Reading recommendation
This book written by psychologist Sonia Lupien, is a guide to understanding, accepting and even loving stress!