Violet here. It's that time of year again! When I hear the words "back to school," the nostalgic scent-memories of pencil shavings, old books, and brand new clothes carry me away to a simpler time when Kindergarten seemed like an exciting new world full of possibility. 

These days, preparing for classes is less about sharpening pencils and double-knotting shoelaces, and more about being vigilant about self care to ensure I have a clear and open mind, ready to receive and retain the knowledge my instructors have to dispense. Luckily for me, I won't have to memorize all the bones and muscles in the body unlike students at the Lane Community College's Massage Therapy Program. Regardless of whether you're an aspiring academic or a student of the world, below you'll find our tips for staying afloat while diving into a new curriculum. 

Eating well can be difficult on the go, and personally, I lapse most when it comes to breakfast. LivingLove Superfoods is a local company crafting small-batch superfood protein powders that I have come to rely on as part of my morning routine. Developed by a nutritional therapist, both the Everything Good and Performance Blend powders are full of protein, essential fatty acids, green vegetables, probiotics, and adaptogens. The best part? They're a cinch to mix into a mason jar full of milk (nut, dairy or otherwise) and dash out the door. You can find them here in our shop where they're eligible for your student discount! Feed your body well, and suddenly everything feels better. 

Now that we have the nutrition part covered, let's talk about helpful study habits. Do you already enjoy the aromatherapy of essential oils? Awesome!

One study from the Northumbria University’s Department of Psychology found that pupils working in a room with the aroma of rosemary, in the form of an essential oil, achieved 5% to 7% better results in memory tests. Apparently this isn't a new discovery, ancient Greek students wore garlands of rosemary in exams. Ophelia, in Shakespeare's play Hamlet, says, "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance."

We sell certified organic rosemary essential oil in our apothecary for $10.00 per dram, that's just $9.00 for therapy students and professionals! Northumbria University have also found that sage, ginseng, lemon balm and gingko biloba can all have positive effects on improving mental performance. Plants make such great allies, and when I'm feeling less than stellar they're always there to lend a helping hand. Err, leaf?  

Okay so you've gone to class, you've studied hard, and now it's time to unwind. Rest is paramount in keeping your brain healthy and nourished, and therefore able to retain and recall all the stuff you've just packed into it. As the days begin lengthening and temperatures drop, bathtub season approaches.

Ever heard of epsom salts? I'm sure you have! People have been using it as a folk remedy for hundreds of years. Find them in the UT apothecary, add some essential oils, and bam! Heaven on earth, waiting to be added to a tub near you. After a jam-packed day I find nothing better than a nice long soak. Even if I don't "have time" for a bath, soaking my feet works wonders. 

Kirsten Antony, Registered Nurse and Certified Reflexologist practicing Holistic Nursing for over 20 years writes,

 "Of the multitude of benefits, regular use of Epsom salts have been shown to improve sleep, reduce inflammation, improve muscle cramps, wound healing, healing of skin conditions such as athletes foot and toenail fungus, build healthy skin, joints and nerves and removes of toxins from the body.

Another benefit of Epsom Salt is that it has the potential to improve the mood. Magnesium helps to produce serotonin which is a chemical the body produces to induce relaxation, a feeling of well-being and happiness."

Well there's a few tips for now! Keep in mind that the Urban Therapeutic team is here to be your ally on this journey toward your new career. Stop in anytime for other keen ways to make the most out of your time spent learning, absorbing and exploring. 

Good luck out there!
- Violet