Many moms feel tired and stressed out. Over time stress can have a negative impact on overall health. Here are five simple ways to de-stress during the day.
It's no wonder so many moms feel tired and stressed out. From the moment you wake till the end of your day, you are always on the go. Each day is delicately balanced and it doesn't take much to knock everything off schedule. Traffic, long queues, illness, car trouble, tantrums, unexpected emergencies – they all wreak havoc on even the most organized day. If you're lucky enough to have a day that runs like clock work, there's still no getting away from the fact that you've probably had very little time to stop and catch your breath.
In the short term, a certain amount of stress is good. It helps keep you motivated, focused and ready for action. However, it is long-term stress that can be detrimental to your health and well-being. This stress gradually builds up over time and can contribute to a variety of health concerns:
- Constant headaches
- Digestive problems
- Fluctuations in weight
- Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne
- Fatigue
- Muscle tension
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feelings of anxiety, frustration or being completely overwhelmed by day to day responsibilities
Make Time for Deep Breathing
Yes it's that simple! Dedicating five minutes a day to taking slow deep breaths can help lower your heart rate, blood pressure and ease muscle tension. Not only is it effective but it's also a very cheap way to give yourself a much needed 'time out' in the day. Practising regularly will also create a positive habit of being more aware of your breath. That way, when the going gets tough, you will automatically start breathing more slowly and deeply – helping you to stay calm and grounded. Stuck in traffic? Waiting for the kettle to boil? Use this time wisely and practice your deep breathing.
Treat Yourself to a Relaxing Spa Break at Home
Spas can be expensive and difficult to book. The good news is even a busy mom can be pampered just as effectively at home. There are many treatments you can do easily – body brushing, foot soak and exfoliation, manicures, facials or hot oil treatments for your hair. Ideally, you need at least one hour of undisturbed quality time, so ask your partner or a family member to look after the kids. Light some candles and play some soft, soothing music as you soak in the bath or have a luxurious shower. Make sure you have some fluffy towels waiting for you and afterwards curl up with a good book or magazine. You will really feel the benefits of pampering yourself. You may even decide to make this a weekly ritual!
Rediscover Your Creative Side
Write, dance, sing and play! Children are amazing at immersing themselves in their own imagination and creative worlds. Sadly, this is something many of us lose as we get older. Creativity will help you reconnect with your own inner child. It will bring about a sense of calm, well being and excitement that is often lost as responsibilities and worries grow. Do something you enjoy and lose yourself in a creative activity. You can do it on your own, with friends or even get your kids involved. Who knows, your creative talents may even open up some unexpected doors for you!
Exercise Your Stress Away
Get up, get out and stretch! Stress creates tension in your body. This can lead to muscular aches and pains and also affect your breathing. Walking is a fantastic way to get outside, stretch your body and get some fresh air into your lungs. Even if your walk is part of your daily errands, make the most of it. Treat it as an opportunity to get some exercise, let off some steam and clear your head. It can even help spark creative ideas and give you a new perspective on any challenges you're facing.
Laugh and be Merry
A major effect of stress is constant worry. This can have a dramatic impact on your sense of well-being. Worries can become so overwhelming that you no longer see the many little joys that come your way everyday. Life is about balance and it's important to make time to laugh and see the funny side of things. Find ways to bring more humour into your life. Watch a funny film or comedy show. Meet with other moms who share your sense of humour and do something fun and carefree together.
Stress and the Busy Mom
When it comes to dealing with stress, the most important thing is making sure you take time for yourself everyday. While you may feel you have too many demands to meet, there is always time for you to look after and nurture yourself.
Allowing yourself a few minutes each day to de-stress means you will not only feel better physically, but you'll feel more positive, more energized and still accomplish everything a busy mom needs to!