Routine Benefits
Officially, Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States, meaning government offices, post offices, banks and schools are closed. Labor Day, which recognizes the contributions of American workers, falls each year on the 1st Monday in September. Unofficially, Labor Day quietly marks the end of summer. For many families, the long Labor Day weekend is an opportunity to squeeze in one more summer adventure.
When I was growing up, the school year started after Labor Day, so it truly felt like the last hurrah for summer before getting back into the routine of a new school year. From multi-generational picnics with all the summer classics to renting a cabin, complete with fire pit and kayaks, I love the memories our family has made as we’ve said our goodbyes to summer each year.
I’ve always looked forward to that last bit of summer energy that the Labor Day weekend offers. However, once September rolls around, I’m eager to get back to routine. That routine usually came as I headed back to school, even through my college years. It wasn’t long before my own children's school schedules were creating a sense of routine for our family. However, even that stage of life will soon be coming to an end as the last of our three children prepares to graduate from college.
While summer allows us to slow down and step away from the growing demands of life, getting back to routine can help our minds and bodies reset in ways we may not have considered.
Psychological
As much fun as summer is, the casual nature that accompanies vacation, can make even basic decisions like dinner and bedtime a daily chore. Routine regulates our daily choices. A predictable schedule, no matter how simple, provides a much needed sense of stability.
Physical
Generally speaking, there are actual health benefits to having and maintaining our routines. By simply returning to a regular sleep schedule after a more casual summer, we can help improve our energy levels, which often leads to better eating and exercise habits.
Mental
The truth is, human beings are naturally goal-oriented. Having a clear schedule creates dedicated blocks of time for work, school, exercise, and even hobbies. This simple step actually helps us to feel more accomplished.
With one more holiday left before we wrap up the season, we may find ourselves wanting to hold onto the carefree days of summer. From pool parties and parades to cookouts and camp outs, there are countless ways for us to celebrate this holiday weekend. While my family is busy saying our goodbyes to summer this Labor Day, I’ll look back on our fun-filled summer as we prepare to usher in fall and with it a much needed sense of routine.
After all, there are only 3 months left in the year...
~ a mere 7 weeks till Halloween. I’m sure you’ve seen the evidence.
~ 11 weeks till Thanksgiving. To be honest, I’m already planning the menu out in my mind.
~ and 15 weeks till Christmas, which is hard to wrap my head around.
Those numbers alone are like a paradigm shift, taking me from the long relaxing days of summer to a countdown of holidays in need of, none other than…routine.
Whatever your plans may be this Labor Day, I hope you have a wonderful day as you say goodbye to summer and welcome the days of fall.
Comments