As the start of term approaches, students will soon be returning to the classroom. There may be now subtle signs of anxiety or apprehension after having such a good summer holiday in your child and but there are things you can do to help them transition back into their school routine like establishing a better sleep routine, getting in the habit of reading again, less screen time etc. It is important prioritise their physical health and well-being or order for them to get the most out of going back to school.
In this blog, we will discuss the importance of good posture for students, the benefits of osteopathic treatment, ergonomic tips for back to school, the importance of physical activity, nutrition tips for better concentration, and stress management techniques for students.
Importance of Posture for Students
Maintaining good posture is essential for students, as it can help prevent musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Poor posture can lead to muscle imbalances and strain on the spine, resulting in discomfort and decreased concentration. Maintaining poor posture at a desk or in front of a laptop can lead to fatigue and eventual aches and pains. By practicing good posture, students (parents and teachers) can improve their focus, energy levels, and overall well-being. Osteopaths can provide guidance on how to correct posture and recommend exercises to strengthen the core postural muscles that support the spine and help you to maintain good posture for longer.
Heavy Backpacks and what they are doing to kids bodies
Heavy backpacks can lead to lots of musculoskeletal aches and pains such as back, neck and shoulder pain. Repetitive lifting of a heavy bag (especially with with poor lifting technique) is unnecessary and avoidable. Having a heavy bag can lead to your child’s body to lean forward, causing forward head posture, over extension of the neck and leading to neck and shoulder aches and pains. Not only this, the knees over extend and the hips get sore all for leaning forward too much with a heavy bag.
A bag or backpack that is the right size for your child can avoid unnecessary aches and pains too. A correct size is a bag that is the length of the torso with about 2 inches above the bottom. Try fill the bag evenly, using multiple compartments in the bag so the body does not lean to one side. This can also be helped by using both shoulder straps.
Ergonomic Tips for Back to School
Creating an ergonomic workspace is crucial for students, as it can help prevent strain on the body and reduces the risk of aches and pains starting to develop. When setting up a study area, students should ensure that their desk and chair are at the correct height, with the computer screen at eye level. It is also important to take frequent breaks, stretch regularly, and avoid slouching or hunching over while studying. By practicing good ergonomics, students can minimise discomfort and improve their overall productivity when going back to school.
Importance of Exercise and Physical Activity
Staying active is key to maintaining a healthy body and mind, especially for students who spend a significant amount of time sitting at a desk. Engaging in regular exercise is important for everyone but can especially help kids boost their mood and concentration, strengthen muscles, improve mobility and help maintain a healthy relationship with their body, especially doing something they really like to do like football or swimming. Students should aim to incorporate at least 30 minutes of exercise into their daily routine, whether it be through sports, yoga, or simply taking a walk. By prioritising more movement and exercise, students can enhance their overall well-being and academic performance.
Nutrition Tips for Better Concentration
Eating a balanced diet is essential for everyone, not just your child going back to school. Children go through such breakthroughs in their physical and mental development as varying times where healthy sources of fats and proteins help provide the building blocks and essential fatty acids needed for mental and physical development. It provides the necessary nutrients for optimal brain function and concentration.
Students should focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, rather than lots of flour based foods and starchy carbohydrates. These may include foods such as bread, pasta or baked goods and can lead to a lot of inflammation in the digestive system. This can lead to bloating among other things that is discussed here.
Avoiding sugary snacks and caffeinated beverages can help prevent energy crashes and promote sustained focus throughout the day. By fueling their bodies with nutritious foods, students can improve their cognitive abilities and enhance their learning experience. More water, less fizzy drinks!
Stress Management Techniques for Students
Managing stress is crucial for students, as academic pressure and deadlines can take a toll on their mental and physical well-being. Implementing stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, exercise, and time management can help students relax and stay focused. It is important for students to prioritise self-care and find healthy ways to cope with stress, whether it be through journaling, talking to a trusted adult, or engaging in a hobby. By practicing stress management techniques, students can improve their resilience and overall academic performance.
Benefits of Osteopathic Treatment
Osteopathic treatment focuses on the body as a whole, aiming to restore balance and promote healing through manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system. Osteopaths can help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. For students going back to school, osteopathic treatment can address any aches or pains developed over the summer holidays, postural issues, reduce stress on the body, and improve alignment. Regular visits to an osteopath can help students maintain optimal health and prevent injuries throughout the school year.
To Conclude
As students prepare to go back to school, it is essential for them to prioritise their physical health and well-being. By focusing on maintaining good posture, seeking osteopathic treatment, practicing good ergonomics, staying active, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress effectively, students can set themselves up for success both academically and physically. By incorporating these tips into their daily routines, students can improve their overall health, concentration, and performance throughout the school year.