As the house quietens down, it might be time to reclaim a little calm. The return to school or routine often brings a mix of relief, exhaustion, and that strange mid-season energy where one foot’s still in summer and the other’s slipping into autumn. Whether your days are now filled with early alarms, packed lunches or simply a shift in pace, it’s the perfect moment to pause and reset.
At James & Co, we believe in thoughtful self-care, not elaborate wellness routines. Just small, soothing moments that you can naturally weave into your day. No pressure, no performance - just a little bit of time to yourself. They don’t have to be expensive or complicated, just try to make them something that’s enjoyable and personal to you. So if you’re craving calm amidst the chaos, here are a few of our favourite ways to ground yourself as you transition into the new term ahead.
Reset your Space
There’s something incredibly comforting about a small, predictable reset. It might be tidying the hallway after the morning rush, lighting a candle and reading for a while, or popping the kettle on as soon as the last lunchbox is packed. Routines don’t have to be rigid to be restful - they just need to feel like yours. Pick one activity to signal the transition from busy to still or consider treating yourself to something decorative that brings you joy. Our scented pumpkins are a beautiful touch this time of year - bringing a hint of autumn without going all-out. Try placing one near the front door or by the sink for a fun way to lean into the new season ahead.
Create a Cosy Corner
Set aside one spot in your home that always feels calm - even if it’s just a favourite chair or a windowsill with a view. This is your five-minute corner: a space to pause, breathe, sip something warm and recalibrate. Try keeping it clutter-free, adding a soft throw, and consider a signature scent to make it feel personal to you. Our electric diffuser is a low maintenance option, allowing you to experiment with any of our refill oils to find your perfect match.
Plan Moments of Connection
Self-care doesn’t have to be solo. One of our favourite back-to-school rituals? A calm activity the whole family can enjoy - think journaling side by side, a scenic walk with the dog, or a tech-free Sunday breakfast with soft music in the background. Children thrive on rhythm too and involving them in moments of stillness can be of benefit, helping them to learn that rest is something to value. The back-to-school routine can certainly be a challenge and it’s healthy to chat through your shared concerns and experiences. Connect with other parents and friends who might be in a similar boat to you, and always reach out for extra help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Set a Digital ‘Curfew’
It’s deceptively simple but turning off your phone - even for an hour - can feel like a luxury. Pick a point in the evening where the scrolling stops and swap screen-time for something tactile: a book, a bath, a bit of music, a cuddle with your pet. You don’t have to go offline completely. Just setting a gentle boundary gives your brain a chance to switch gear, especially if your days feel full of noise and distraction. It can be helpful to avoid screens for a few hours before bed as this reduces your exposure to blue light and is supportive of restful sleep.
Protect your Rest Time
Many of us don’t plan our rest - we wait for space, which never quite appears. The desire to achieve often takes over, but one of the best ways to ensure you have the energy to be productive is to take some time-out, giving your brain and body a much-needed break. Try adding your self-care habits into your calendar as your first priority: a walk, a soak in the tub, a phone call with someone who lifts you up. Think of it as preventative, not indulgent - you’re looking after yourself so that you can, in turn, look after others well. You don’t need hours, just a few minutes that are regularly protected.
We’d love to hear how you take care of yourself when things get busy. Here’s to finding your back-to-school balance - whatever that looks like for you.
