From breakfast to bedtime, being a mom is a full-time job. You got this. YOU ARE doing a great job! Though, an empty tea pot cannot fill other cups. You need time for yourself every now and again. If you find yourself feeling like that empty tea pot, here are five ways you can practice self-care:
1. Take a Mindful Minute (or Five) – Sometimes you just need a minute to yourself and a minute is all you can spare. There are many applications for your smart phone or tablet that offer guided breathing exercises and meditations around five minutes or less.
Check out Stop, Breathe & Think, The Mindfulness App or Headspace just to name a few. Taking a break from your electronics? No problem. Find a quiet space where you can sit for five minutes without interruption. Set a timer for five minutes. Close your eyes and try to identify every sound you hear in that moment. And if other thoughts enter your mind while you are doing this, ok. Acknowledge them and then let them go….
2. Start a Gratitude Journal – Studies have proven that keeping a gratitude journal can improve emotional and physical well-being. Start small by carving out five minutes of your day to jot down a few things you are thankful for. Gradually develop a routine of writing in your gratitude journal each day. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, grab your journal and reread some of your previous entries for an instant mood boost. It can be anything you are grateful for from your amazing child to your hair looking fabulous.
3. Connect with Nature – As a busy mom, you might not have a lot of free time to take a walk around the block. Try stepping outside your home for a few moments to catch some fresh air.
4. Get your Zzz’s – Not getting enough sleep is a major cause of illness and stress in everyone, especially moms. Exhaustion can lead to irritability and anger which then leads to more guilt. Make a plan for better sleep. It’s hard, we are moms, we get it. Try these tips once the kiddos go to sleep at night (even if they may only be sleeping for a short amount of time…sigh): power down screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime, try reading or listening to a great new book, consider the use of a lavender scented eye pillow or other essential oils to help you relax.
5. Seek Support - Asking for support can be difficult. It doesn’t mean you aren’t handling everything well. You just need time for you. Every now and again, it’s necessary for you and your family. Support can come in many forms including talking to a family member, catching up with friends, getting a baby sitter or connecting with a local moms group.
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