Reclaiming rhythm; easing back into routine after summer

As we shift in September, there’s a subtle shift in the air. 

Even if you’re not directly involved with the school run, September carries a sense of return. 

For many of us – whether we’re parents, carers, or simply living life on a seasonal clock – this time can feel like both a fresh start and a jolt back to reality.

But this return doesn’t need to feel like a harsh snap. 

It can be gentle, intentional, and even nourishing. 

Life may look different now

Maybe your children are older now and don’t need the same morning support. 

Maybe you’ve changed jobs, started working from home, or you’re managing health or lifestyle changes post-summer. 

Whatever has shifted, it’s okay that your routine looks different than it did last year – or even last month.

This season is about acknowledging the changes, rather than resisting them. 

There’s no gold star for doing things the same way forever. 

Take a moment to assess: what’s actually needed now?

Both of my children are now at big school. 

This means no more school runs – they walk themselves, and suddenly the mornings look very different. 

I have time, which at the moment I’m not sure what to do with (that’s not going to last long though!).

So, I’ve been looking at my own weekly timetable, adjusted my working hours, and reshaped my own routine. 

I’m trying to see this not as a loss of what was, but as a gentle transition into the next phase – for them, and for me. 

Children grow, blossom, and change, and each stage of their journey deserves to be seen, honoured and cherished.

Don’t rush the rhythm

It’s tempting to go full steam ahead – up early, packed lunches, fitness plans, reorganised cupboards – but your body may still be in summer mode. 

And that’s not a bad thing. 

Instead of flipping a switch, think about transitioning like dimming a light.

Start with one or two small shifts:

Set a consistent bedtime or wake-up time, prep one simple meal ahead, schedule movement or bodywork that supports you, not punishes you.

Consistency comes from kindness, not force.

Less is more right now

September can stir up a lot of pressure – new goals, new plans, and that dreaded productivity push. 

But your nervous system may already be in overdrive from summer’s social pace or travel fatigue.

This is a good time to scale back rather than scale up.

Think about maintenance rather than improvement. 

What keeps you feeling well? 

What routines feel nourishing, not depleting?

You don’t need to overhaul your life – you just need to land softly back in it.

Check in with your body, not your to-do list

It’s easy to let external expectations dictate your routine. 

But your body holds more wisdom than your calendar ever will. 

Whether it’s through Pilates, massage, or simply taking a moment in the morning to breathe – use your body as a guide.

What’s it asking for? 

Rest, movement, structure, fluidity? 

Trust it. 

There’s always an option – and your job is to find the one that feels right for right now.

Back-to-school isn’t just for the kids. 

It’s a transition for all of us. 

Give yourself permission to ease into routine, to keep things simple, and to stay curious rather than critical.

There’s no perfect way to return – only your way.

Sam ‘taking a moment’ Hobbs