September and the end of summer is here.  For so many of our practice members and their families, this means a complete change in schedule, the stress of new environments and possibly one of the most hard things to admit - the end of summer in Encinitas, as we know it. Gone is sleeping in and waiting for the fog to burn off (for those of you young enough to not have to work), enjoying sunsets on the beach after work and soaking up the summer energy.

It’s important to remember that during this time, stress is something that can creep up on you if you don’t consciously think about it.  Most schedules will change with kids starting school and the sun setting earlier… try not to let this rule your life.  Keep your perspective of what it takes to keep you and your family healthy ( physically, mentally and spiritually).

Physically - If you are used to working out daily, fit it in.  Even if the timing is cut in half - be happy with that and know that as things settle down to the new routines it will get back to what it was.  Stick to your regular chiropractic adjustment visits for you and your family. Know that keeping your nervous system healthy will  prevent you from adding stress to your body and allow you to adapt better when it comes up.  Take your supplements and make sure that your kids are taking them too (ask us about some extra immune booster supplements for added stress) and fuel your body well. Don’t fall into bad eating habits just because your schedule gets busier. Think organic, decrease alcohol and caffeine and increase your water!

Mentally - take time out of your day to stop, relax and breath!  It may take a bit of time to fall into that new rhythm of fall, but it will happen. When stress increases your breath gets more shallow and fast. Deep breathing oxygenates the entire body (including the brain), so be conscious that you are breathing slowly and deeply.

Spiritually - don’t loose that connection to whatever you hold dearest to your heart.  A 5 min. meditation (if you are extremely busy) can change your entire state of being. Take it from us, having a 3 year old you become a master to the 5 min. meditaton at times.  Don’t be hard on yourself for not getting to your meditation or prayers and feel blessed that you are connecting when you can.  Stay aware and be connected as you go through your daily routine.

Summer is gone, but remember what lays ahead. Fall in Encinitas brings many wonderful and beautiful Sept/Oct. days and gorgeous sunsets (without the crowds). Enjoy and focus on the changes of our families growing up, our lives filling up and most of all the many blessings that everyday brings.

Namaste