If you’re a student, welcome back to school!
Sharp pencils, packages of shrink-wrapped lined paper, and fresh haircuts are sure signs of a new school year. No more late nights stargazing or watching Netflix. It’s time to settle in with textbooks and homework.
Survival Tips
Whether you’re in fifth grade or college you need a good night’s sleep. 
Light from a TV or computer screen can affect melatonin production. That’s the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle, also known as circadian rhythms. Turn off all screens two hours before you plan to sleep. That includes your cell phone!
Stay active. If you find yourself sitting for more than an hour, get up and stretch. Go for a walk. Turn on some music and dance. Physical exercise keeps your mind sharp and can boost your creativity.
Nutrition
Cut back on junk food. Have you ever heard the saying you are what you eat?
Wholesome food not only makes you feel better, it clears away the cobwebs in your brain that come with processed and sugary foods. While you’re at it, replace sugary drinks with water. Your body will thank you for it.
If you are responsible for preparing your own food, plan ahead. Slice carrots and celery for an afternoon snack. Develop some simple recipes that you can make quickly. My favorites include chicken quesadilla and anything in a crock pot. I hear Instant pots are really great too.
Always eat breakfast. Have some grab and go breakfast foods on hand for those mornings when you just can’t get out of bed in time. Don’t forget foods you can eat on the run like yogurt, protein bars, string cheese, and banana nut bread.
Friends and Homework
Get to know your classmates. Trade phone numbers. Meet for homework and study sessions. 
If you miss a class, call your buddy and get the homework assignment so you don’t fall behind.
Turn your homework in on time. If it’s a writing assignment consider your audience. Does your teacher really want to read twenty-five identical papers? Spice yours up with some creative approaches to your subject. Add humor, take an unconventional position, use alliteration or rhyme to package your message.
Welcome back to school. Wishing wonderful weekends between work weeks. (That’s alliteration!)
