We’re nearly there. The end of the school holidays is in sight, and if you’re anything like me, you’re riding that rollercoaster of “this is so lovely, I’ll miss it” and “if I hear ‘Muuuuuum’ one more time I might just lose it.” May I also just add this is my view right now, one eye on soft play, one trying to write content!
So before we all tumble headfirst into the back-to-school rush, I wanted to hit pause and share a little wellness check-in just for you.
Here’s what’s been helping me in these last few weeks – plus some little treats, podcasts, and first-day-of-school tips if you’ve got a little one starting this September.
✨ Wellness Check-In: Coping in the Final Stretch
The days can feel long right now, so I’ve been leaning into tiny, doable things:
- Mini resets – 5 minutes of deep breathing, stretching or meditation before the chaos starts. Honestly, it makes such a difference (I love the Balance App).
- Get outside – Even just a solo walk around the block with a podcast in your ears feels like a holiday or try a late night decompress whilst it’s still light.
- No-scroll evenings – I’ve been swapping my late-night Instagram scroll for a book or an early night (trying, anyway). My brain feels calmer for it.
💡 If you struggle to switch off, I’ve been loving this aromatherapy pulse point roller before bed – it smells like an actual spa.
💅 A Little Beauty Pick-Me-Up
Holidays at home with kids aren’t exactly restorative. If you’re feeling frazzled, a quick beauty ritual can work wonders:
- My 5-minute glow routine: plumping tinted moisturiser, cream blush and panorama lashes – instant fresh face, see the full GRWM set and tutorial.
- Hair rescue: A nourishing mask once a week to undo the pool/sun damage.
- Mood-boost nails: I’ve gone bold and bright for summer and every time I see my hands I feel a bit lighter.
- Refresh your bits: We all know the feeling of having a few new products to try, treat yourself!
🎧 Podcasts to Keep You Company
When the house is loud, I plug in and escape. A few on rotation:
- Happy Place – Fearne Cotton – thoughtful conversations to reset your mindset
- Sh**ged Married Annoyed – pure comedy and chaos, because sometimes you just need to laugh
- Happy Mum, Happy Baby – hosted by the brilliant Giovanna Fletcher, this one always feels like a warm hug and a real talk with mates
- No Parental Guidance – yes, mine! If you need proof you’re not alone in this messy season of parenting, it’s all there and so is Amy Hart!

To continue reading this post with a free 7-day trial, view this post on Substack and sign-up.
I’m now using Substack to provide you with more valuable content and exclusive discounts. You can become a free subscriber to receive limited content, or become a paid subscriber for a small monthly fee for the full experience.
Thanks so much for your support – Louise x
*Affiliated links used for some products and brand partnerships.

