The upcoming school year has many of us overwhelmed and anxious and some of us on auto-pilot and zoned out. If you are like me, I appreciate the more structured schedule; though, the monotony can put me in a daze. Before I know it, it is usually the end of the calendar year and I feel like I missed out on the beauty and beginnings that make up the season of back to school and fall. Practicing mindfulness in the little things has helped me slow down and find calm in the chaos - see if it can be useful to you!

• Wake up even just 10 minutes earlier than usual to sip tea, step outside, or meditate
• Turn off the music or news in the car and just BE
• Practice breathwork and using your 5 senses when you are waiting in line or in a rush - avoid scrolling through your phone in these moments
• Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner while sitting down at a table
• Create something for the home that is inspired by the season – a wreath, fireplace display, or bouquet of flowers
• Ask the kids (and then really listen) about something they liked about their day and something they might change
• Start a gratitude practice as a family - reflect on/share something that each of you are thankful for at nightly dinner or bedtime

Lastly, give yourself grace in this new season and remember you will never experience quite the same season again.