Ways to Beat the Back-to-School Stress

Summer is coming to an end, and we all know what that means: the back-to-school rush will soon take over. Between shopping for school supplies to making sure your kids get fresh haircuts, you will find yourself in an all-too-familiar state–scrambling to complete everything on your very long to-do list. The busy morning routine will reset, the leaves will slowly start to change colours, and before we know it, the time to pull out warm, cozy clothing to brave the cold winter months will be upon us. But, there’s no need to panic right this minute! There is still time to indulge in some rest & relaxation before the inevitable juggling act resumes.

In a woman’s world, there are never enough hours in a day! So, when it comes to relaxation, our recommendation is to keep it simple: treat yourself to a few hours–or a whole day, if your schedule allows it–at the spa.

Halfway through the door, you will already feel more relaxed. Hair in a bun, sporting slippers and a terry cloth robe, let the relaxation begin! Sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, cold tubs, and repeat. Every step is executed in complete silence, a practice that is good for your mind, body & soul. Make sure to take some time to visit the lounging area, and simply get lost in your thoughts while sipping on lemon infused water. You will leave there feeling completely rested & rejuvenated–like you are walking on air.

Why not throw in a massage at the hands of the experts while you’re at it. The one person who takes such good care of everyone needs to be taken care of too (yes, we are talking about you). With all the different types of massages offered, it can be hard to choose which one is right for you. May we recommend a Hawaiian massage, or lomi lomi? This ancient practice known for its soft touch, has many benefits: releasing tension and energy blockages in order to restore general well-being. Now, doesn’t that sound like a little piece of heaven…

Check out a list of top rated spas in Canada. Find one near you!

If spas aren’t accessible to you, buy some essential oils and plan your spa day at home. Take a nice hot bath with candles, music, and a glass of wine. Close your eyes and take nice deep breaths; before you know it, you will feel all your worries fade away.

It’s no secret that tea has many benefits to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We love it for its detoxifying properties, but most importantly there is nothing more soothing than sipping on a hot cup of tea. Why not visit your local teashop or café for a tranquil moment of solitude. Add some fresh-from-the-oven gourmet scones to the mix and you will have yourself a very satisfying afternoon.

If pastries don’t get you warm and fuzzy, you might better enjoy a tea tasting while channeling your inner artist with a visit to a ceramic café. Choose your piece – cup, vase, plate, or decoration – and let your creative juices flow. Paint or draw a masterpiece all while savouring a selection of herbal teas.

Visit top tea cafés in Canada and ceramic cafés – The Clay Room, Le céramic café studio

If your area doesn’t offer tea & ceramic cafés, visit David’s Tea and buy your own DIY paint or creative journaling supplies at your local arts and crafts store. After all, merging relaxation and creativity can be a very therapeutic experience.

Enjoy!

 

Adapted from French by Jonelle Larouche

 

Written by Pauline Ponchaux

Straight from Northern France, Pauline has great admiration for “baked-just-right-baguettes”, waffles, and sweets at brunch. Films from the '80s and '90s are almost a religion, and she adores reciting memorized lines from her favourite movies at any given time. Since she moved to Quebec, Pauline has developed a passionate curiosity for the reoccurring discrepancies between the “current temperature” and the “feels like temperature” advertised on The Weather Network. She also likes: reading in the metro, strumming the strings of her ukulele while dreaming of beaches and sunshine, trips to exotic places, Barcelona and Güell architecture (and let’s not forget sangria of course), cats, Tom Hanks, Bill Murray, and The Beatles.

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