September
Changing Seasons and Back to Routine.
I like to think of September as the start of something fresh rather than the end of the summer. However I appreciate it can be difficult to get into this mind set as the lazy summer mornings are replaced by the ringing of alarm clocks, preparing packed lunches, and the familiar rhythm of routine returning. For some, this feels welcome and grounding, a return to structure after weeks of summer. For others, it can bring anxiety with new schools, new beginnings, or simply the shift back into being ruled by the clock. Research shows that establishing daily routines can support our mental health by lowering stress and creating a sense of stability, while sudden changes or disruptions often increase anxiety and low mood.
Parents and children often experience mixed emotions at this time of year. There can be relief in the return of order, but also sadness in the quiet house once children head back to school, or the deeper absence when a young adult leaves for university. I remember the excitement I felt as a child about returning to school, as I loved being in the classroom, but as a parent it always felt bittersweet when the summer days with my daughter came to an end. At the same time, I had friends who breathed a sigh of relief at reclaiming their homes and no longer having to be a referree, come up with endless fun things to do or provide a constant supply of snacks and ice lollies.
Anxiety, relief and sadness are all are natural responses to change. It is important to allow ourselves to feel whatever arises, without judgement or comparison. Your experience may be different from those around you, and that’s okay. September can be a reminder to accept ourselves just as we are, whether we are waving children off to school for the first time, adjusting to a quieter home, or stepping back into familiar routines. We might even take inspiration from the trees, which don’t fight the inevitable shift of the season but allow their leaves to fall, showing us that letting go is a natural part of growth. Taking a few minutes each day for something simple, such as a mindful pause with a cup of tea or a walk in the changing light, can make space for calm as the season unfolds.
