Get your vacation brain back in gear.

The summer is winding down, and school is right around the corner. That means you’re going from a summertime schedule that probably involves work, seeing friends, or travelling, back to the classroom. Adjusting back to school can be tough, but it doesn’t  have to be with the tips we put together.

Here are some ways you can warm up your brain before getting back to class:

1. Read

Reading is always important, and if you haven’t exactly been in the habit of picking up a book throughout your summer, try to do so before school starts. Reading is a healthy and stress-reducing way to give your brain the exercise that it needs. You’ll learn some new words and keep your spelling and grammar sharp. Also, experts say that reading can slow the progress of (or possibly even prevent) Alzheimer’s and dementia, since keeping your brain active and engaged prevents it from losing power.”

Besides, you’ll probably have to do a whole lot of reading in school – so starting now is a good idea!

2. Make a schedule and to-do list

Getting organized will warm up your brain and prepare you for school. By planning out your schedule and writing a to-do list, you’ll be getting back into the routine of sticking to a schedule and getting important things done. This will also help you to feel prepared and less stressed once school starts and life gets busier.

Need to organize yourself? Don’t forget to pick up an agenda from one of IGNITE’s offices and get organized!

3. Make breakfast a priority

If you’ve been going the whole summer without making breakfast a priority, now is the time to start. Eating breakfast gives your brain the energy it needs, it’s going to be tough to concentrate in class if you’re hungry and low on energy. Also, getting into the routine of having breakfast and maintaining a healthy diet before school starts will set you on the right track to be healthy, happy, and successful throughout the school year. Here’s a list of foods that are great for your brain.

4. Get physical exercise

Getting exercise is another great way to help your brain out in general. Humber and Guelph-Humber offers students plenty of ways to keep fit, from great facilities to championship-winning sports teams. Exercise is great for your mental and physical well-being. Shy to hit the gym? Here are some exercises you can do in your dorm room.

You have nothing to lose by checking out the Humber North and Lakeshore gyms once school starts.

5. Meditate

Meditation is a great way to relax, as well as to train your brain to become mindful. Student life is stressful so it’s important to make time for yourself and your mental well-being. Between tests, assignments, work obligations, and family, meditation might just be the perfect way to press the reset button.

Check out our list of apps that can help you de-stress.

We understand that going back to school takes some adjusting. We hope that these tips help make that adjustment easier for you, and remember that IGNITE is here for you with plenty of services to make being at school the best experience possible.

We’re also here to help you get back into the fun with awesome events like FROSH! Stay tuned for the full details of what’s happening on September 11 and 12!