Self-Care Archives - The Motherly Heap

February Favorites 2024 for Moms

Jordan N. — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:47:32 +0000

Spread the Love1 1ShareHello to all the multitasking mamas out there! February is charming as we embrace the last whisper of winter and anticipate the gentle nudge of spring. And what better way to celebrate February than by indulging in some seasonal favorites for moms? Whether it’s cozy reads, comforting meals, or self-care must-haves, this month has myriad treasures for you to discover. So, let’s dive into our “February Favorites” — your go-to list for reviving the joys in mom life! This post contains affiliate links, and I may get a commission from qualifying purchases using the product links. Thank you for your support. Affiliate Disclosure 1. Favorite Books for Moms Take a little time for yourself and curl up with a good book. Lose yourself in the pages of these thoughtful and inspiring reads, perfect for a mom’s well-deserved break: 2. Favorite Self-Care Products for Moms Because self-care isn’t selfish, moms, treat yourself to these pampering delights as February favorites: 3. Favorite Valentine’s Day Recipes Nothing beats a sit-down dinner at home. There is no need to book a space ahead of time, and culinary skills don’t have to be divine. Pick a recipe and get cooking together, or surprise your loved ones. Posts You May Like: 25 Wellness Gifts for Moms 30 Emotional Self-care Tips for You Affirmations for Moms 4. Favorite February Activities for Kids Keep those little hands busy and minds active with activities that are both fun and educational: 5. Favorite Valentine’s Day Ideas Don’t forget to nurture your relationship and make time for some romantic moments together: Wrapping it All up! There you have it, dear moms — a February favorites list created with you in mind. This month, find solace in the pages of a book, warmth in a meal shared with loved ones, laughter in your children’s play, calm in your self-care rituals, and reconnecting ideas with your significant other. What will be your favorite this February? Explore these suggestions and carve out some precious moments of joy! Spread the Love1 1Share

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Mindfulness for Mothers

Jordan N. — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:13:59 +0000

Spread the Love5 5SharesAre you trying to find a way to slow down the rushing and pulling of your mothering days? As a busy mother, you rarely have time for quiet time. However, practicing mindfulness for mothers is a simple way to reduce the daily rush and busyness. As mothers, we are prone to multitasking to keep the household going. We keep track of all the happenings in our busy homes. Our minds run as fast as 100 miles per hour and don’t even include the subconscious list that goes on. We may even ignore our needs for clarity and space as long as everyone’s alright. We face several demands of motherhood every single day. True, we don’t back down – we keep pushing forward. I experienced these days in my life and didn’t think mindfulness could be vital in helping me. But, as I delved into mindfulness as part of my self-care practice, I’ve learned much more and what it has brought into my life. I am more open to just being – facing each moment and choosing what I’m taking in. Letting go of any worries and realizing all I needed was to be still and mindful. As a result, I have released the things that clog my mind. Mindfulness is an effective way for mothers to deal with the challenges of motherhood. It can help you focus on the present moment and stay calm in difficult situations. When you need to collect yourself, mindfulness comes in. In addition, mindfulness can provide that when you seek silence and mental clarity. Why is mindfulness beneficial for mothers? There are many benefits to mindfulness that can be helpful for mothers. Mindfulness lets you focus on the present moment instead of letting your thoughts wander. It doesn’t place judgment on what you are experiencing or feeling. As a result, mothers can better handle whatever challenges come their way. Mindfulness can also help to improve communication with your children. You are more responsive and feel connected with them. Also, mindfulness can help you be more present with your children and give you better insight. You are more attuned to the home environment where your children thrive. You’ll notice more details in your everyday life as you go about your day. You might even find time to enjoy what you see. But unfortunately, our lives had become a scramble as we all went through the Covid-19 Pandemic. And now, we can begin to reset. As we adjusted to the things we took for granted, we became more aware of everything. In addition, mindfulness has been studied to regulate your body and mind. Both are linked, so when one is out of balance, the other will likely be. Mindfulness can help calm an overactive mind and body, helping you feel more centered. These benefits show that mindfulness can be your great ally as a mother. More on mindfulness at work for moms Here are some other advantages of mindfulness practice which you can appreciate. How can one start with mindfulness? 1. You can practice mindfulness in many ways, and finding a form that works for you is essential. You can try out different mindfulness methods. Popular methods for mindfulness: 2. When practicing mindfulness, it is essential to be patient with yourself. It is a process that takes time to learn and cultivate. As a result, there will be days when you need help concentrating or getting going in your chosen space. 3. There are many ways to do things regarding mindfulness. However, be patient and consistent in your practice; you will see the benefits in your daily life. 4. Set aside time during the day to get yourself centered and begin your mindfulness practice. 5. Take your time with your mindfulness sessions. Giving yourself enough time to focus and be in the moment is helpful. Start slowly to get familiar with how each exercise affects you. 6. If you prefer quiet practice, create space if you are easily distracted from your surroundings. For example, it may be simply closing the door of a room or stepping out for a moment. 7. Ask yourself — what you currently need at this moment. Clarity? Release? Silence? Focus on moving forward with your need. 8. Check in with yourself: What is happening right now? What is happening around me? What is happening inside my body? Why this feeling? 9. Slow down. Mindfulness moments can be simple. However, it is challenging to do that when children are involved. Take every opportunity. RELATED POSTS: 30 Emotional Self-Care Ideas for You: Tend to Your Emotional Well-Being Journaling for Wellness: Easy Steps To Start Affirmations for Moms as Self-Care Practice Specific Mindfulness Exercises you can try: What do studies say about mindfulness? You can read more on mindfulness in more in-depth. However, the benefits mindfulness has brought to the table weigh significantly regarding your overall health. How has mindfulness helped me? I have been reluctant to do mindfulness at first. I never even thought that this method could work on my mental health. However, it was worth stepping into, and I am grateful I gave it a chance. Yes, I acknowledge everyone is different, but who knows if you give it a try. Now, I’m more on practicing mindfulness with meditation to clear my thoughts during bedtime and to help me sleep. It takes repetitiveness to see results. It takes commitment from myself and being consistent about it. Check out Great Meditation from youtube is a good one to start with. The daily grind of motherhood is hard, and mindfulness has helped counter any challenges I face. Wrapping up Mindfulness For Mothers So, what’s a busy mom to do? Thankfully, we have plenty of mindfulness methods to choose from. However, it is crucial to find one that works for you and stick with it. We’ve explored the basics of mindfulness for mothers and how it can profoundly enhance your life as a busy parent. It’s not always easy, but with focus and practice, you can make it a daily activity that will give you a greater sense of balance, clarity, productivity, and more. In addition, regular mindfulness practice brings greater peace, which helps to provide joy and nourishment to those around you too. So if you’re feeling the call to pursue mindfulness as a mom—to honor yourself by making time for this small practice — trust that it is worth every second of your effort! If you’re looking for help starting or feeling stuck in the process, consider tapping into helpful resources like meditation classes held at local studios, mom networks built around calming moments together, or personal coaches who specialize in mindful living. Taking control of our reality as moms begins within us—consistency is key! You’ve got this—so take a step towards success and growth through mindful living for moms! In time, mindfulness will become second nature; you can use it as a self-care practice even when life gets hectic. So, what method of mindfulness do you plan on trying first? Has practicing mindfulness improved your busy mom life? Please share in the comments. Spread the Love5 5Shares

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25 Best Wellness Gifts for Moms

Jordan N. — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 07:05:41 +0000

Spread the Love8 8SharesFinding the perfect wellness gifts for moms can be tricky, but with some thought and creativity, you can find something that will make them feel special and appreciated. Like most moms, you are always looking for ways to improve your health and wellness, and this gift list is for you, too. And if you’re looking for a wellness-themed gift, here are some ideas to get you started. This post includes affiliate links and I may get a commission from qualifying purchases using the product links. To check out the product, click on the image for more details. Full disclosure. Here are wellness gifts for any moms in your circle or yourself! Majestic Pure Massage Oil Moms may feel worn out and tensed. This relaxing massage oil can help release tightened muscles and help her feel calmer. Choose this lavender-scented massage oil as part of your self-care gifts to a mom. Massage gun I can say great things about this Renpho massager, but to experience it is a real review. This massager will quickly ease any discomfort from feeling pain and tight on any body part. Help moms get the relief they need when it comes to aches and discomfort. Ihealth thermometer It’s always good to be prepared for any illness at home. Moms have too much on their minds when someone or themselves is sick. Having the proper health tools can ease any mom’s mind. She may not overthink a thermometer, but this one is easy to use and accurate. Eye massager Unless she has eye problems like glaucoma, eye surgery in the past, cataracts, or retina problems, this one may be a welcomed gift from you. An eye-relaxing gift may help with puffiness or even dryness. Please check with a medical professional before using this product. Reminder Binder Moms get so busy with everyday hustle. So, give her the gift of getting organized through this particular binder. I have been using mine, and it helps me get everything under control, especially when I have a lot on my mind. For example, keeping track of appointments and school activities, this one got me through hectic schedules. Mental Health Journal What do you need to get peace of mind? Release of stress and worries? This mental health journal walks you through documenting everything that helps clear your mind. You can use it to track your mood, mental state, goals, etc. Resistance Bands For fitness-enthusiasts moms, here are some fitness bands she can incorporate into her fitness routine. Easy to use, has different levels of resistance, and is added to any exercise that requires engaging the muscles. For example, working out for moms will be a powerhouse with these resistance bands. I use this on my workout routine, and I’ve been loving them and hating the burn! You got the idea! Humidifier This ultrasonic cool mist humidifier takes her wellness goals to another level. It keeps the air from drying in winter and is used yearly at home. Health comes first; give her the gift of supporting her health. It may help her sleep comfortably, and it’s quiet while running in the background. We have had this humidifier in our home for a long time now; so far, it has been an excellent product and easy to care for and maintain. Face Mask Before you say or think something weird about this mask, let me ease your concern. This egg mask takes care of the skin plenty. For my weekly skincare routine, I have enjoyed this mask that takes care of elasticity, wrinkles, tone, moisture, etc. There’s no scent to this mask; after 10-15 minutes on her skin, she’ll feel it tight, and then time to wash it with warm water. Supple and smoother skin, YES! Face Serum Are you looking for an inexpensive yet effective Vitamin C serum? This is the one! It’s a brightening facial serum that doesn’t irritate the skin. Each person has a different skin profile, yet this serum may pass the brighter and smoother skin checklist. Include this in your self-care wellness gifts for moms. She will love it! Face Roller This beauty tool is all about taking care of the skin. Gentle facial massage with the jade roller or the Gua-Sha can help skin feel lifted and depuffed. Let this beauty duo do the work for the benefit of skin pampering day or night. Body Scrubber What can I say about this scrubber? It lives up to its name and 25,000 reviews! This body brush can be used wet or dry. A gentle exfoliator for the entire body that brings out skin smoothness and banishes dullness. Time to pick this beauty tool for a wellness upgrade! It has become a permanent beauty tool for me as well. Cleanser I have an ever-gentle facial cleanser in my skincare arsenal. I have been using this cleanser for years, and I always return to it after trying other skin cleansers on the market. It lives up to the skin pampering expectations – gently cleanses, non-drying, and removes makeup too. Get this for the mom in your life or even for yourself. A holy grail of all the cleansers! Teas What a great bundle of teas your mom friend can try. These teas are formulated for wellness and comfort. Brew one or two a day, depending on what she feels or needs at the moment. Pick these tea bundles for the moms in your circle. Check with any medical professional before taking this product. Heating Pad Who doesn’t have aches and pains nowadays? This heating pad would be perfect to complement any relief therapy. Let her feel supported and comforted with this healing tool through the hard and good days. When using this product, be mindful of the skin contact time. Related Posts: Tips for Moms Dealing With Stress 30 Emotional Self-Care Ideas for You: Tend to Your Emotional Well-Being Journaling for Wellness: Easy Steps To Start Bathtub caddy Relaxing, calming bubble bath in her self-care checklist? Then this tub caddy is excellent for carrying what she needs during bubble baths. Give her the gift of relaxation with this carry-all caddy. If you want one for yourself, it’s time to get one now! Plush Robe If she wants to feel luxurious and comfortable, time to give this plush robe a chance. She can use this around the house while sipping her morning coffee or tea on a lazy rainy afternoon. It has pockets for her phone and other gadgets for convenience. An ideal gift for a mom who is a homebody. Electric Toothbrush Personal hygiene gifts for moms include this electronic toothbrush. A practical tool to keep the teeth properly cleaned and taken care of. Easy to carry for travel and effective in cleaning those pearly white teeth. Adding to her perfect smile every day. Unique Bath Bombs Does she like surprises? Then this one-of-a-kind gift for mom is something to give. Let her relax during her regular bath time, and viola – a mystery surprise! Body Wash There is nothing but goodness in this body wash. It has no harsh ingredients, is gentle on cleaning, and moisturizes the skin. If you haven’t try this soap, now’s the time to grab a 2-pack. One for you and one for another mom. Lip Mask Do you suffer from cracked lips? Does it happen no matter how you hydrate during the day? Then look no further than this heaven-sent lip mask. It only requires a little on the lips, but it packs a punch! It conditions and nourishes the lips while sleeping. Promising supple and soft lips upon waking up using this lip mask. Now add this to your wellness gifts for moms. Hair Eraser Can you believe there are beauty tools that provide results such as this hair remover? It’s not a gimmick or what – when used properly and accordingly, you can achieve hair removal with no pain and no shave cuts. I had to try for myself before recommending this wellness gifts list for moms. I can say I am impressed! It does work. Smooth skin to boot! Hair Oil Repairing hair isn’t easy at all. Dryness and dullness come with everyday washing. What if a hair oil helped reverse common hair issues? Let this hair oil shine like a superstar in her hair regimen. No regrets, only healthy hair. Steps on how to use Olaplex bonding oil. Electric Mug As a busy mom, reheating your coffee or tea may be a norm. Now, not to worry, this mug will keep any warm drinks to its temperature anytime of the day. What a fancy technology to help moms enjoy their cup of coffee or tea even when they’re up and about. Tea infuser As for our tea-lover moms, nothing cuter than these tea infusers steeping in your favorite mug. Buy the set and give them to your mom friends and chat over tea. I especially love these tea infusers I bought for my daily tea time. These are the infusers I’ve been using for years. What are you waiting for? Give these wellness gifts a chance to pamper moms in your life with empowered self-care, improved health and well-being. If you enjoy this type of post or it has been helpful, please share or pin. Thank you. Spread the Love8 8Shares

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Summer Wellness Reset for Moms

Jordan N. — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 05:21:04 +0000

Spread the Love9 9SharesAre you ready to reset your wellness during summer? Will you devote some quality time to yourself? It can be hard to get time for yourself, especially now that school is out for the kids. I get it. Summer schedules are packed, but it can be forgiving. Routines can be flexible and may be geared towards giving yourself more time for a summer reset. While the rest of the household can do what they intend to do this summer, you can slice a part of your day for quick summer rejuvenation. A wellness reset can become your best asset to regain your composure and physical vigor. So to renew your vitality this summer – say YES! We all have our share of aches and pain from the day-to-day grind. But, as moms, we can either ignore and push through or pause and do a 180 reset. A time to rejuvenate yourself before the next school year starts. Let’s do it! **This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase from the affiliate links, I may earn a commission from your purchase. You have no extra cost if you decide to click and buy. Thank you for your continued support of this blog. Full Disclosure** Things You Can Do for a Summer Wellness Reset Start Inward with Yoga When you crave inner stillness, yoga can become your ally. As your body moves and holds a position, let your mind focus inward on what you are experiencing. Boho Beautiful has been a pivotal inspiration for me and can be yours too. Check out their channel for great yoga sessions that cover most yoga needs. Schedule a Reading Time A book can take you anywhere but where you are. A peaceful period lets your mind travel along with the book’s character. The reader tries to appreciate the storyline and experience. Books may grant you an escape when travel isn’t on the summer schedule. Grab something different from what you usually read from the library or the bookstore. Check out the Kindle Unlimited library for several best selections of books. Search for Nature Escapes When time permits and kids are in summer camps, do something that requires you to be in nature. You go for a trail hike, a bike ride, and a river kayak. Choose which nature adventure invites you to immerse and recharge. Soak for Calm Rejuvenation Most times, the evening can only be our time for ourselves. So take the opportunity to prepare a calming bath, soak and relax. Let an hour be your time and nothing else. Then, check out these bath bombs for you. Also, here are stress relief products you can try. RELATED POSTS: Journaling for Wellness: Easy Steps To Start 30 Emotional Self-Care Ideas for You: Tend to Your Emotional Well-Being Tips for Moms Dealing With Stress Summer Fitness for Reset Who needs a gym when you can take your fitness inside the house. There are plenty of summer fitness challenges you can choose from. Some of my favorites are Hana Milly, Annie Taylor, Holly Dolke, and Josie Liz. Quick 10-20 minutes exercise plus warm up and cool down can be what you need for a reset. Don’t forget about stationary bikes, treadmills, and even total gym equipment. Never discount the power of dumbbells, kettlebells, and exercise balls. And if you prefer the gym setting, go for it. What’s important is where you can focus on your fitness and where you can give your best. Switch Up Your Plate Take on summer vegetables and fruits. Then, depending on your medical needs, talk to your doctor or nutritionist about what you can spice up in your diet. If you don’t have any restrictions, you are open to discovering any delightful summer recipes. From whole foods to vegan or balanced meals – food can take you from here to new heights. Sleep to Recharge Parenting and sleep are significant challenges, that’s for sure. But, unfortunately, whether you have a newborn or teen, sleep isn’t what you can get quickly. Let a summer routine for sleep take a new face. Prep for your sleep time. Create a calm sleeping mood with a clutter-free environment and soft sheets for comfort. Cool down the air and turn on the humidifier. Quiet down. Scribble down your thoughts in a journal. Silent mode on your phone. Turn off the TV before sleep time. Diffuse some essential oils. For a deep sleep blend: 1 drop of lemon, two drops of peppermint, two drops of eucalyptus, and four drops of lavender. Set your sleep hours. Set your sleeping time and waking up time. Aim for your sleep goals this summer. Summer Skin Care Nighttime summer skin care. Opt for fresh and rejuvenating skin care products. You can even make your DIY skin serum for evening relaxation. I tried this DIY serum recipe, which has been amazing on my skin. So simple to make, and you probably have all the ingredients on hand. Daytime skin care during the summer requires more from you. Simplify the process with moisturizers, light serums, and sunscreen. Reset for Summer Wellness This Year Find your reset button this summer. Moms can partake in a summer recharge with any of these recommendations above. You can squeeze in any other summer activities that you think may rejuvenate you and revamp your wellness. Most importantly, have fun with your summer reset. The best thing you can do for yourself is to prioritize yourself. Don’t overthink or strictly plan for your summer this year. Instead, mom, start this season and take the reins to a beautiful summer wellness reset. Thanks for stopping by the blog today. What are your best summer wellness tips? Spread the Love9 9Shares

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30 Emotional Self-Care Ideas for You: Tend to Your Emotional Well-Being

Jordan N. — Sat, 09 Apr 2022 22:41:52 +0000

Spread the Love6 6SharesHey mom, you look like royalty in that hat! I know it’s been tough lately with balancing work and home. We’re always taking care of everyone else and trying to juggle a million things at once, but we often forget to take care of ourselves. Emotional self-care is one of the four pillars; now, discover some ideas to boost practicing self-care. Would you agree that moms deserve some TLC, too? After all these years of sacrificing everything just because we wanted nothing more than a happy family. Moms are notorious for putting their own needs last. I’m a testament to that. This scenario can lead to emotional distress and feelings of overwhelm. This blog post will discuss how you can take care of your emotional well-being. We’ll talk about self-care for moms and provide some helpful tips that you can use in your everyday life. No matter what you do, the most important thing is that you make time for yourself and find activities that make you feel good. Taking care of yourself is an integral part of overall emotional health. Why is Self-care important for your emotional well-being? Self-care is essential for your emotional well-being because it allows you to take a break from the stressors of everyday life. When you take time for yourself, you can relax and recharge, which can help you feel better mentally and emotionally. Self-care is important for all people, but it can be especially for moms who feel overwhelmed, ragged, stressed out, and exhausted. When you take care of your family, take the time to keep your upkeep yourself. What is emotional self-care? Emotional self-care is the practice of taking care of our emotional well-being. Caring for how we feel and what makes us think – raises the awareness of ourselves. Let the nurturing of yourself take center stage. Intentionally choose yourself to prioritize your well-being. There are many different ways to practice self-care, mainly focusing on your emotional well-being. When it comes to self-care, moms can become overwhelmed with where to start. It is important to remember that self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant or time-consuming. You can do many small things each day to help take care of yourself emotionally. Here are no-frills ideas for emotional self-care: 1. Acknowledge your feelings. Let it sink in. It’s a process, and it takes practice. When you give space for your emotions, you can freely feel them at the moment. It may hurt, bring joy; whatever it is – acknowledge its presence. 2. Connect with nature. Spend time outside and take in the fresh air. Lie on the grass and look at the sky. Notice the things around you that are changing with the seasons. 3. Connect with loved ones. Spending time with loved ones can help boost your mood and raise your sense of belongingness. Spend time with your friends and family, and take the time to connect with them. Develop friendship and solid emotional support. 4. Do something you enjoy. Take some time for yourself to do something you love, whether that’s reading a book, taking a walk, or painting. 5. Prioritize moving your body. Exercise releases endorphins which can help improve your mood. 6. Reach out for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out for help from a friend or family member. 7. Set up and enforce your boundaries for self-care. It’s important to set boundaries for yourself to make time for the things you need and want. It might mean saying no to invitations or requests from others, setting limits on how much work you take on, or scheduling regular self-care activities. 8. Write down your emotions without criticism from you. Let the words flow. When you’re constantly taking care of others, it’s essential to take some time for yourself to focus on your own emotions. It can be helpful to write down how we’re feeling without judgment or criticism. Writing it down will help us understand and acknowledge our feelings, which is an essential step in emotionally caring for ourselves. 9. You can say NO. Some days you may feel touched out, and that’s okay. If you prefer to be left alone and reset, then do that. There are no wrong answers when it comes to self-care. Some days you may feel like you need more touch and interaction, while other days, you may want some time alone to reset. That’s okay! There is no wrong way to take care of yourself emotionally, as long as you’re listening to what your body and mind need at the moment. 10. Positive thoughts can also help you tune in your emotions. It can become linked together so that when you think positive thoughts, it, in turn, will make you feel good emotionally. 11. Set your emotional self-care routine. Luckily there are many different ways to practice it! Incorporating some of these ideas into your daily routine can help you take care of yourself emotionally. 12. It’s okay to step back when emotions are big. It can feel like we’re falling apart when it’s hard to control any boiling anger, sadness, or fear. The key is to remember that these intense emotions are temporary and will eventually pass. Use relaxation techniques that help you calm down. Practice these techniques that may work for you. 13. Get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults need around seven to eight hours per night. Sleep ultimately helps your physical, mental, and emotional health. 14. Take a break. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be helpful to take some time for yourself. It might mean taking a break from work, canceling plans, or just spending some time alone. Prioritize the rest in your calendar. Not adding more activities into your mom planner. Write down — REST. 15. Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness practice involves focusing on the present moment and becoming aware of your thoughts and feelings. A method that can help you center yourself and be intentional within and around you. You pay attention to what you are feeling. You process the feeling as it is and even accept your own reaction. Check out this study about brief mindfulness meditation (BMM). 16. Practice self-compassion and prepare to forgive. When perfection gets in the way, or you’re hard on yourself, it’s time for some self-compassion. Oh yes, it means being kind to yourself, even when you don’t feel like it. Forgive yourself for your mistakes and know that you are capable of growth. 17. Talk it out. Sometimes talking through your feelings with a friend can help manage them. Talking to a friend lets you release what’s eating you up externally; letting off steam can be the best tool in your emotional self-care kit. 18. Know your emotional triggers. Everyone has emotional triggers or things that set them off and result in a strong emotional reaction. Once you know your triggers, you can start to work on managing them before they manage you. 19. Look for healthy coping tools. When life throws you a curveball, it’s important to have healthy coping mechanisms. Now, it could be anything from taking a 5-minute reset, deep breathing, closing your eyes, or stepping out of the emotionally charged space. 20. Be open to welcome compliments. Compliments are a great way to boost your emotional well-being, but they can be tricky to accept if you’re not used to them. Often, we brush off compliments or find ways to negate them because we don’t believe that we’re worthy of the kind words. However, allowing yourself to soak in and accept compliments can positively change how you see yourself. 21. Stop apologizing ALL THE TIME for everything. For others, doing this is tough, as women are often consorted to being more apologetic than men. However, over-apologizing can take away your power and make you feel small. Instead, try to notice when you’re apologizing unnecessarily and work on cutting back. 22. Consider joining Mom Support Group. A support group can provide invaluable emotional support and learn from others trying to find balance in life. 23. Enjoy the music for what it is. Let it take you away for a bit, even if it’s just for the song’s length. 24. Practice gratitude every day. Consider writing down three things that you’re grateful for each day. Then, as you reflect on those top three on your list, take that moment in and enjoy it. 25. Compliment Yourself. Believe it or not, giving yourself compliments can help boost your self-esteem and feelings of self-worth. Watch how you talk to yourself, your language, and your tone. In addition, it can be very validating when you allow yourself to receive compliments from others, as in #20. 26. Try Counseling. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you can’t seem to get your emotions under control, talking to a therapist may be the best step for you. A therapist can help you understand and manage your feelings healthily. 27. Do something you are passionate about. Reroute your energy. When you’re feeling down, it can be helpful to do something that makes you feel good. Pick an activity or hobby that interests you and dive in. You list down what you like and enjoy doing that helps you bring back the joy in your life. 28. Take a break from social media. Social media can be a huge source of comparison and leave us feeling bad about ourselves. So if you’re struggling, take a break from the tentacles of social media. 29. Pause. Respond. Consciously taking a step back before reacting can help you avoid saying something you might regret. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, this is a helpful practice to remember. 30. Talk to your partner. Discussing your feelings with your partner can help foster better communication and understanding in your relationship. Talking openly with your partner also allows your partner to provide support when needed. Taking Care of Your Emotional Well-being I hope these emotional self-care tips for moms have encouraged you to prioritize your well-being. It’s not always easy, but it is so important. Allow yourself to move through your emotions and respond to yourself, others, and your environment. Regulate your thoughts, examine your feelings and look for ways to manage them. The most important takeaway for putting your emotional needs front and center is… — for you to say YES – to your emotional needs. Saying YES to care for yourself now. Let the ideas in this post help you get started on prioritizing your emotional self-care needs. What are some things you do to practice emotional self-care? Are you trying to get started on self-care? Here’s a 7-Day Self-Care Challenge Worksheet you can DOWNLOAD below. Spread the Love6 6Shares

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How to Incorporate Exercise into your Daily Life

Jordan N. — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 04:09:56 +0000

Spread the Love39 39SharesAnother day has begun, and you feel like dragging your heels today. You feel unmotivated, a bit tired, and your mood swings are in full force. You look at your day planner and sigh – it has been two months since your last workout session. Well, there are simple ways you can incorporate exercise into your daily mom life. Or it could be, you haven’t planned out your fitness routine. It’s possible you may be feeling lost and have no idea where to start. Where do you start? What exercise should you pick? And for how many minutes a day and how often? Too much information, and it’s overloading your brain – but you got to up your fitness game. You try to make excuses and tell yourself, “Maybe, next time.” “I don’t have 30 minutes today.” “I have too much to do!” Do those statements above sound quite familiar these past weeks? Now, I’ve got two questions for you. Are you overloading yourself with things that can wait instead of giving self-care a chance to revive you? Is it too much to carve out time for your self-care needs? If you answered yes, then continue reading. What I did and how I made it possible for me? Back then, I was one to push back fitness time in the afternoon. However, I found it counterproductive to wait until the last minute, and I’d feel like it’s another thing “to do” on my day. I would skip one day, and it’ll extend to more days, and eventually lost my motivation. I didn’t plan well, nor was I serious about it. Working full time and being a mom, fitness was not a priority to me at that time. As a result, my overall health was declining; stress and anxiety were winning. Something had to be done, for my sake. I’ve got to commit to my health and fitness. But it was when I was most motivated years ago that I had a revelation – I would feel a sudden surge of energy mid-morning. So, I thought, why not use this as a push to exercise. I don’t know why and I didn’t look for the reason. Whether I was busy doing household chores or getting some quick reading done, I’d always felt like that was the perfect time for me to sweat it out. And guess what? I gave it a shot. It worked! I took that boost of mid-morning energy as my go-to motivator to get it done. I would have my kids do something nearby, like playing with their toys or do some art. Then, I would get into my workout clothes (shirt and yoga pants) and give my best for the whole 20-30 minutes. Mama, 20 minutes to recharge yourself is more than enough for a start. Grab that self-care time. Find that SURGE of energy within you. Also, you may want to reflect on barriers to your self-care and see what you can do. If you’re anything like my past self – procrastinating and unmotivated. Well, look no further. This post will center around how you can fit exercise into your life, even with the kids around the house. And these won’t take up too much of your busy time at home. I am not a fitness expert. However, I share here the methods that have been effective in keeping myself active, even as a busy mom. Make sure you always check with your healthcare provider first before starting any exercise routine. Are you ready? 7 Simple Ways to Include Exercise into Your Daily Routine Schedule Your Fitness Time for 30 minutes for 5 days a week. Fitness coaches and experts always say start small. I agree with this statement 100%. But as a beginner, you may need to ease into the regimen to give your body to adjust to the new routine. Do 30 minutes sessions 2-3 days a week. If you’re coming back into fitness from a long pause for whatever reason, then start easy as well. Next, gradually increase your exercise routines’ intensity or duration. So, starting. When you sit down and layout your fitness plan, give yourself time to adjust. Always start with warming up and stretching techniques. You can do a lot between 5-10 minutes of warm-up exercise. Then, give your all for 20 minutes, then followed by another 5 minutes cooldown. You can fit in your exercise according to your daily plan if you need a one-page list – print this simple daily planner out to keep you on track with your daily schedule. If you prefer not to exercise 5 times a week, you can do 45 minutes 3 times a week instead. But, if you can only give 20 minutes, that’s fine as well. So, pen it down in your planner – HIGHLIGHT it! You are the boss when it comes to finding the perfect time and duration for your exercise regimen. Find the exercise that you genuinely enjoy. What I found interesting is that time and time again, I’d go back to dancing. Whether I lift or do a power walk or run – dancing is my go-to. It could be that it has been a part of my life ever since I was young. When I’m dancing, I don’t even keep track of the time. I’m enjoying myself while sweating it out. As long as I keep moving to a tune, I’m all good. Then my grounding exercise is yoga. It’s an exercise not only for my body but for my soul and mind. I can focus on myself and mindfulness once I begin my yoga practice, either early in the morning or before bed. With these, I want you to find that spark, the exercise that doesn’t feel like a workout to you. Instead, choose the one that you can have fun with while burning calories. Once you get that down pretty good, you can add on another type of exercise to your fitness routine, if schedule permits. Here are some exercises from SELF you can check out that are quick to do for a busy mom like you. For example, the 20 Minute Cardio Workout or 20 Minute Strength Workout you can do at home. Be realistic of your expectations. Setting goals and expectations keep you accountable. Write them down and keep them visible. Let it drive your motivation. Let exercise become a focal point. Then, as you go, let it become part of your habit of living a healthy life. I understand that you’re also a busy mom. Plus, your kids and house demand plenty. I get it. Maybe you also work 40 hours a week. You know some days can be a bit harder than others – it’s okay to skip. But don’t let anything be an excuse not to exercise. Instead, try to get back to your routine as soon as you can. When you set your fitness goals, be honest and realistic about them. Don’t write an unattainable length of time or pounds set in stone. Be prepared for some fitness bumps along the way. Putting too much pressure on getting your sweat on can lead to burnout. Learn how to be flexible, especially when kids require most of your attention and time most days. For example, your baby may come down with an illness, or your kindergartner is having a hard time adjusting to school. Increase your daily steps when you can Walking to the grocery counts. Taking the stairs at work counts. Parking away to walk to church also counts. Every little step counts, even at home when you’re doing house cleaning or tidying. One of the things that I cherish, we do nature walks as a family. We find a walking trail or state park, and we explore it together. Getting to spend time with the family – is sacred to me. So everyone can enjoy nature, and we all burn calories while having fun. I call that a win-win for mom! You can do a power walk with a slight incline if you have a treadmill at home, then you’re good to go. While you’re walking on the treadmill, go ahead and catch up with your favorite show. Suppose you’re taking your walking session outside. You can also listen to your favorite motherhood podcast while you walk in the neighborhood in the afternoon. The bottom line, get those steps at the end of the day. Add it to your morning routine. Wouldn’t you know, mornings are sacred to moms? It’s the most tranquil point of the day. Make use of these rare quiet moments when no one is tugging at your clothes or calling your name multiple times a day. Raise your hand, no matter how you want to sleep in; your body automatically wakes you up to begin your day. Guilty as charged here. If you’re an early bird, then grab this opportunity to get your sweat on before everyone gets up during your early morning routine. When you commit to this morning session time, you will feel accomplished, and it’ll keep the ball of productivity going. This post may contain affiliate links; if you purchase from any of the links provided – I may earn a commission at no cost to you. Please read the complete disclosure here. Invite your spouse or children to join your exercise sessions. Activity done together is fun! Exercising as a family makes for a good bonding time. In addition, it allows you to connect with your spouse and kids. Do a dance party for everyone, or an afternoon quiet yoga session. If you’re all into hiking, grab those water bottles and sunscreen, then head on outside to the walking trail. Getting the family together for any exercise routine is a way to keep the whole family healthy. It can also motivate your kids to take extra good care of themselves through exercise and staying healthy. Track yourself: Fitness Journal plus an Activity Tracker App (Samsung Galaxy Fit 2, Fitbit, Apple Watch) Why is tracking your progress important? It shows your starting point, including your initial goals – even short-term ones. Then, going through your fitness routine – you’ll see progress and improvement. But, of course, you may even see setbacks, too, and that’s alright. One great motivator is seeing your recorded fitness journey. Let it fuel you and keep you accountable too. Doing a side-by-side fitness photo of yourself before and after – can also motivate you plenty. How to effectively track your fitness progress? Write down your fitness goals and vision. Plan ahead with the exercises and equipment you’re going to use. Use a fitness journal or a simple fitness log. Purchase a tape measure, weighing scale, and food scale. Take pictures of yourself, including your body (before and after) Make use of the fitness activity app mentioned above. Record your exercise regimen daily/weekly, including your stats. Commit to exercise even when you’re busy There you have it—the seven simple ways to incorporate exercise regimens into your daily life with little time on your hands. Create a fitness space for you and pick your perfect time. Choose the fitness activity that you love. Set your expectations and fitness goals accordingly. Please don’t discount the power of daily steps; involve others to make it fun. Remember to keep tracking your progress and celebrate your fitness wins! I’m hoping you’ll apply one or two of these tips as you gear up to jumpstart your fitness journey despite your busy mom schedule. All information included in this post is purely for general information use only. It’s not a substitute for medical or other professional advice related to fitness and exercise. If you need a little bit of nudge in creating a Self-Care Plan – check out this simple planner to get you started (including a self-care tracker page). FREE 7 Days Commitment for Self-Care for Moms Fill in the Info below and know that your privacy is important to me. Opt in to receive updates and more! Yes! Send it...

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Journaling for Wellness: Easy Steps To Start

Jordan N. — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 00:23:12 +0000

Spread the Love48 48SharesWhen it comes to wellness for moms, there are several ways you can achieve such goals, and one of them is journaling. You may envision some self-care time, a personal improvement retreat, or a complete overhaul of your wellness strategies. Whatever is happening at this time in your life, you can ensure that journaling can help you attain your well-being and health goals. Achieving a holistic approach to wellness is the key to a better life, calm mind, and healthy body. As far as I can remember, journaling has been part of me growing up. It has helped me process my emotions and experiences in life. I’ve relied on the benefits that journaling has afforded me all these years. I started on a free-writing style journal as a way to express myself. I’ve also journaled using other methods depending on what I needed and have enjoyed journaling as life continues. Why is journaling good for promoting wellness among moms? You can track your emotions and moods Time to reflect on thoughts (positive/negative) Re-enforce your mindfulness practice Ways to manage your stress Keeps you on track with your healthy habits Encourages growth Writing for Therapy Improves mental health Boosts creative inspirations What are the Types of Journaling you can explore? 1.Gratitude Journal – the name speaks for itself. This type of journal is geared towards seeing the positive in your life and being grateful for them. 2. Goals Journal – a way to track your short-term and long-term goals; it can be personal or professional. 3. Motherhood Journey Journal – you can start this journal from the moment you first knew about being pregnant. This journaling is followed by your pregnancy accounts, postpartum, and beyond. A motherhood journal can expand into milestones, special motherhood memories, and parenting challenges. 4. Fitness Journal – a health journal about your overall fitness journey that includes workouts, fitness goals, fitness progress, even fitness meal plans. 5. Dreams Journal – yes, if you are one of the lucky ones who remember your dreams, then you can begin writing them down. You can also see patterns of dreams. 6. Self-Care Practice Journal – This is different from the fitness journal. This journal is an overall account of your care and commitment to yourself. It can include any self-care practice you have been doing currently and plan to do. 7. Therapy Journal – this is about bringing awareness of your mental health. You can be writing about your thoughts/feelings and coping strategies under a licensed therapist’s guidance. Journaling can also be used for personal growth or overcoming personal struggles. 8. Travel Journal – a handy journal companion when you travel. You can fill it up with trip itineraries, emotions, connections, and photos. Some call it an adventures journal – like a scrapbook-style journal. 9. Reading journal – this journaling focuses on the books you’ve read and your take on them. It can also be for books you are planning to read or simply listing your favorite ones with snippets. 10. Spiritual Journal – practicing spiritual journals can be an excellent cleansing for the soul. You can use this along with your Bible study, High Purpose Journey, or even calmness practice. 11. Nature Journal – can be a practice to appreciate your time with nature, exploration, and experiences. There’s no limit to what you can journal about regarding nature and its healing properties. 12. Food Journal – this is to track your eating habits and nutritional intake. This type of journal can be incorporated together into a fitness journal as well. Journaling can be a free writing journal, a bullet journal, or has guided prompts within. So you have all the options to choose what works best for you. Sometimes, you may use bullet journaling for fitness or self-care; write freely in a motherhood journal or guide prompts with a therapy journal. There’s no wrong or correct way to approach journaling for wellness. Instead, you have to see and experiment with what keeps you motivated to journal and what aids you in your wellness journey. How to Start Journaling for Wellness? Know your WHY. Why do you want to journal? What are your expectations in journaling? What are your goals? Let writing in your journal be part of promoting wellness in your life and not just another section in your to-do list. Keep your journaling simple, to begin with. Starting out small and keeping it easy to do. When you venture into more in-depth journaling as you become adept at the practice, your commitment to your writing efforts will increase as well. Make it a ritual. Staying consistent will help you be successful in your journaling practice. You can try to write every day or do a 5-minute journal break. There are many distractions in life; mothering isn’t without struggles; why not keep journaling within your daily routine. Choose your optimum time. This step can keep you flexible about the time when you write in your journal. You can journal anytime; it doesn’t have to be in the morning or at bedtime. I prefer the early morning or early afternoon when there’s downtime in our home. Write it down; type it or use journal apps you can try out. For me, I thrive in doing it traditionally with simple pen and paper. Mixing creativity and staying simple. This answers number four above. So do you – do what works for you. Whatever type or how you journal – you can try it out, and you’ll be able to see what’s an effective method for you. Some will start with 2 paragraphs, a drawing, listing, or even writing letters to self. Keep it near and within sight. If you see it, you are more likely to jot down what you intended to do. If it’s hidden somewhere or far from where you unwind, you’ll most likely skip it. Setting your expectations with journaling. Although journaling is a part of considerable aspects of self-care, it might not solve all your woes and problems. However, it can act as a bridge towards healing, growth, and recovery. **This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase from the affiliate links, I may earn a commission from your purchase. There’s no extra cost to you if you decide to click and buy. Thank you for your continued support of this blog. Full Disclosure** The Tools You’ll Need to Start journaling: Your preferred journal. A guided one, blank slate, workbook, etc. Pens/Highlighters Stickers/Washi Tapes Or a phone app (Reflections. app) **not an affiliate or a sponsor of this product; check out what this app can offer and if it’s what you’re looking for.** Other journaling accessories to keep you motivated/inspired writing in your chosen journal. So whichever you prefer to use in your journaling practice, you can ensure that reaching your wellness goals isn’t that far. Here are 30 Journal Prompts to inspire you and help you jumpstart Your Wellness Journaling Journal Prompts for Wellness: Today I chose ____. Describe what wellness is to you. How are you staying healthy? Enumerate your wellness goals. Name something you struggle with. Why? Are you resistant to change? One thing you want to accomplish for wellness today. Your biggest obstacle towards wellness. Write down your wellness win for this week. My wellness priority today is _____. Journal Prompts for Happiness: Describe a happy moment. Write down 4 things that make you smile. Have you seen a beautiful image today? One kindness act – you did or witnessed. Write a thank you letter to yourself. What are the three main things/experiences that make you happy? List down the names of people that add happiness to your life. Are you afraid to fail? How do you feel? What motivates you to find joy? Remember a happy memory and write it down as a story. Journal Prompts for Motherhood: When did you become a mom? Describe the first moment with your newborn; next child. How are you celebrating your motherhood? Write three statements – what motherhood is to you. What makes a good mom? List your fears and worries today. How do you want to parent? Gentle, Intentional, Strict? Why? The happiest memories since becoming a mom. I am _____. In five years, what do you envision in your mothering journey? Takeaway in Journaling for your Wellness Starting can be an easy step; staying on with the practice may pose a challenge, especially to us moms who are on the go all the time. Check your routine, pick your chosen journal, stay consistent, take the time, and last, keep your sight on your why. I encourage you to find the time to pick up your pen and journal. Then take this chance to commit to your wellness through journaling every day fervently. Happy Journaling! If you found this post helpful, please share it or Pin it! Thank you! Spread the Love48 48Shares

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Tips for Moms Dealing With Stress

Jordan N. — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 17:40:40 +0000

Spread the Love49 49SharesMoms, if you feel overwhelmed or your mental space is cluttered, it might be time to pause and learn some realistic tips in dealing with everyday stress. But let me ask this question first. What’s a recipe for a stressed mom? It’s the pressure of doing it all. Life throws you a curveball; you got it. Deadlines piling up and back-to-school shopping, you got it. Cleaning, paying bills, meal planning, and more – yes, YOU GOT IT. Everything and everyone depends on you. One task after the other, isn’t it? Even though your husband/significant other shares the duties of everything at home, it can still be hard to deal with it all. True, that the covid pandemic made it harder for parents to balance the daily grind. It also puts us on high alert for matters that concern the health of the family. Many and more are showing signs of burnout and increased physical ailments. But, of course, stress can be the culprit in all these circumstances. Wouldn’t it be glorious to have a day off from stress sometimes? Make time to readjust your schedule to squeeze in some stress-relieving methods to help manage your stress. Check out these simple strategies for stress management for moms that are attainable and realistic. Practical tips for moms dealing with stress. Slow down How are you supposed to do that? Schedules and deadlines are listed as bullet points on your monthly planner. If you are feeling pressured with time constraints, do some time blocking with each task. It gives you ample time to zero in on a particular job without the overwhelm. I understand the multitasking superpower moms have. However, when you are constantly running to complete tasks, stress makes it more challenging to achieve. Reevaluate your priorities. Overbooked calendars need purging. Then choose to do 3 TOP Priorities for the day. **Instant Download FREE PDF. Learn to let go of the things that are adding to your overflowing list. Identify what’s causing You stress. An excellent way to manage stress is to start pinning down the root cause of your stress. You can begin placing each aspect of your life into boxes, for instance. Each box represents a part of your life. Identify anything that’s causing you undue strain, worry, or distress. Is there a particular time of the day you feel stress rising? It can be helpful to pinpoint what’s happening around that time. Write them down once you identify the cause. Then, create a plan to handle the cause of stress individually. Balancing all areas of a mom’s life isn’t straightforward. You may need to modify a particular aspect or learn to adopt a new method of doing – to protect against mental overload. An excellent example to talk about is – stressful school morning. When everyone is rushing out the door, and you might forget essential things during the chaos. And you realized too late that stress hormones are happily dancing around. It’s good to prepare all school items the evening before. For example, insert all schoolwork in kids’ backpacks, layout the school outfits, and even your work clothes ahead of time. In doing so, you eliminate an apparent stressor during school mornings. Recognize Stress Symptoms as a Step to Manage Stress in Moms What are the common signs you see in yourself when you become stressed? Do you recognize any symptoms of stress right away? Learn to identify how you react to stress. As a result, you can help pinpoint your level of stress tolerance. I’m not suggesting that you bear any stress that comes your way. Instead, it examines your stress reaction and your capacity to remain calm under pressure. It is determining when you are feeling overloaded. Remember the times when your patience and anger get the best of you? How about the physical symptoms such as heart racing, sleeplessness, stomach aches, and throbbing headaches? The inability to focus and judgment lapses; sound familiar? The body is complex and can only regulate what it can. So listen to your body and what it’s showing you. Find Calming activities for Yourself. Finding methods that relieve stress is personal. Moms take on daily meditation, physical exercise (mood booster), or even a regular afternoon walk. Others practice easy deep breathing exercises, yoga, journaling, or art. Some utilize an app to help them with mental health self-care. Look for stress-relieving ways to restore your inner peace and develop that practice for your benefit. Practice self-care even for only several minutes a day. Take that time to recharge yourself. Again, this is done in emphasis to what works for you. If you’re lost for ideas, try out these steps in rediscovering yourself. More helpful tips in dealing with stress for moms Take a Five (Time-Out) Tell yourself you need this time-out. A simple stress break if you want. 1 Minute of Silence 2 Minutes of Hug 3 Minutes of Deep Breathing 4 Minutes of Stretching 5 Minutes of Prayer When stress manifests itself, take yourself out of your current disposition. If you are with your kids, ask an adult in the house to keep an eye on them. Then, remove yourself from the area of stress and take your FIVE. New moms whose stress meter is rising can do this – make sure the baby is safe in the crib and then step out for a few and breathe. You can also apply this method at work. Step out of your work area and practice some breathing exercises and maybe stretching. Take a mental health day – request for a day off. Sometimes, distancing yourself from the hectic monotonous work, even for a day, can restore some charge to yourself. Enlist Help from Others It’s not a downfall moment to ask for help. If you’ve identified that keeping up with the house contributes to your stress level, then maybe it’s time to get some professional cleaning help once in a while. Try not to put too much weight when household tasks aren’t checked off the list the same day. You are a priority, especially if stress is clouding your mind and plowing your body. When grocery shopping trips contribute to your stress, arrange a curb pick-up or have them delivered to your doorstep. **As an amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. During times of stress, don’t forget about your village. Reach out to your support and convey your needs. Talk it out with trustworthy, supportive people in your life. Your husband or significant other may take you out to dinner to unwind; have a trusted someone look after the kids for 2-3 hours. Take the night off. Find parent groups that you can connect with. The parent circle can also aid you in lowering stress simply by sharing parental stories and relating to these stories, and knowing that you aren’t isolated in this journey. The support you gain from this group extends solid what most moms never anticipated. Help from others also includes talking to a licensed therapist. In addition, working to find and outline coping strategies is good stress management to consider. Invest in your Family Time Busy families can neglect to spend quality time together. For example, if both parents work outside the home, sometimes, the remainder of the hours are spent on household chores; other home duties and bedtime are reserved for kids. Make it a point that there’s a family downtime together. Such as family game nights, book time with younger kids, catching up with your teen and going for outdoor fun weekend activities. Find the family adventures that you all can enjoy and unwind together. Laughter and having fun together can help decrease any stress or tension at a given moment. Spend on Stress-Relief Products that can help You Stress reduction can also be paired with products that promote relaxation and calm. Check out this list of stress-relieving items to help moms who are stressed out. It may surprise you to see that a simple product can do wonders in combating stress in your life. Seek out resources like books written by experts in the field of stress management. Discover how you can incorporate methods to reduce and handle stress every day. Try Nature Outing Last but not least, explore nature. Take on the healing properties of nature and benefits to reduce stress. When surrounded by nature and the new scenery, the mind focuses on the calmness and sounds of the environment. There are seven reasons to get outside in helping manage your stress, according to the American Institute of Stress. The American Psychological Association in Nurtured by Nature – “Spending time in nature is linked to both cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health, and emotional well-being.” Let nature help you in attaining better control of your emotions, thoughts, and overall well-being. Plenty of ways to handle stress – find what works for YOU. When we become frazzled, pressured, and stressed out from our parental duties and responsibilities, our mental health suffers, and bodily symptoms of stress resurface. As we take care of our mental wellness, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects follow. On the other hand, neglecting them can cause undue stress to your overall well-being, towards your parenting, and self-regulation. Managing your stress can bridge balancing your home and work life. It also strengthens you to face parental challenges with restored calmness and intentions. Stress is, unfortunately, experienced by moms every day. However, there are several ways and methods to reduce stress to a minimum as possible significantly. I’m hoping these tips in dealing with stress can be helpful for moms. **This information is for general purposes only. It isn’t a substitute for any medical or professional advice. For more information and your situation, please get in touch with your doctor regarding any condition. RELATED POST: Stress Relief Products for Moms: Recover and Relax What are other strategies you use in managing your stress? Let me know in the comment. If you found this post helpful, please share it. Spread the Love49 49Shares

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Stress Relief Products for Moms: Recover and Relax

Jordan N. — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 21:05:59 +0000

Spread the Love30 30SharesAre you looking for products that are intended for stress relief in moms? What about some books to enjoy while you learn how to reduce your stress levels? Moms are always busy caring for everyone at home, finding work-life balance, staying healthy, and everything that comes with life. It’s not easy not to get overwhelmed with all the things moms are tackling every single day. But, no matter how we try to manage our time and layout plans ahead, stress has a way to sneak in. That’s the time for us moms to recharge ourselves, reduce our stress levels, and reclaim our peace of mind. **This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase from the affiliate links, I may earn a commission from your purchase. There’s no extra cost to you if you decide to click and buy. Thank you for your continued support of this blog. Full Disclosure** Here are products that can help Moms with Stress Relief Bath soaks A nice warm soak in the bathtub helps you relax after a full-packed day. Check this combo set from Dr. Teal’s and let it ease the tension from your body. Essential Oils for Diffusing Enough said about the benefits of essential oils in your life. As an avid essential oil patron, it’s genuinely a natural remedy to help keep stress at bay. Blend some combinations of lavender, peppermint, and frankincense and diffuse them around your bedroom. You’ll be inviting relaxation galore. If you are pregnant, be sure to check with your doctor first before you start or include essential oils in your routine. Motivational Stress Balls These therapeutic balls aren’t just for strengthening the muscles of the fingers and hands. This product is also great for relieving stress by squeezing these balls as you do deep breathing exercises. Microwavable Heating Pad This peculiar shape heating pad is designed to provide heat therapy where you need it. It helps with headaches, stress-induced migraines, or neck stiffness. Do you have any joint pain? You can use these on elbows, wrists, knees, or ankles too. Stress Relief Tea Warm calming teas can help you reduce those stress hormones in your body. So take a generous sip of this calming tea anytime tension builds up around and time to unwind. Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager Whenever you feel tense around your neck, shoulder, or back, you can grab this powerful massager and get relaxed. After a long day at work (being a nurse), I also use this one to massage my calves. Stress Gummies Can I say, Heck Yes! My sister-in-law introduced these gummies to me when we were about to travel on a 24 hr flight. That was January of 2020. It really does help with everyday stress, and it still has a regular spot in our medicine carousel at home. Nourishing Calming Body Lotion Nothing feels like pampering your skin after a great relaxing shower with a calming body lotion. I have my favorites, and this is one of them that gives the best-moisturized skin, and the smell is relaxing too. White Noise Sound Machine This machine isn’t just for babies, you know. Some moms use this device to help get a goodnight’s sleep. The sounds lull you to rest, relax and eventually sleep. So check this mommy-approved sleep-inducing machine. Essential Oil Diffuser Necklace The felt pads are washable and reusable. This diffuser is perfect if you want quick stress relief on the go. It can also serve as a nausea remedy companion if you use essential oil to combat nausea. What a combo – remedy + fashion! Dual Foot Massager Roller After working a long shift, this roller has been heaven-sent to release the tension on both feet and improve circulation. You roll your feet, and you’ll be saying – ahhh. I hope you aren’t ticklish, though they have an option to fix that too. RELATED POST: Admit It: Moms Need Self-Care In This Hard Year Journals and Books Every situation is unique to each mom; find books/resources that fit your journey. These are two books I recommend checking out. Also, these two journals are helpful to work with hand-in-hand with your journey in managing stress. I’ve included a mini-review of each to help you choose what might resonate with you. Then, check these books/workbooks out individually for in-depth reviews from other people who benefited from using them. Focused on Mindfulness and other methods to help reduce stress. No Worries: A Guided Journal to Help You Calm Anxiety, Relieve Stress, and Practice Positive Thinking Each Day by Bella Mente Press – A 12-week journal for stress and anxiety, a great companion to do daily. This journal presents you with several self-care inclusions, thoughtful reflections, exercises to address your fears and worries, and practical mindfulness tips. Mindfulness Workbook for Stress Relief: Reduce Stress through Meditation, Non-Judgment, Mind-Body Awareness, and Self-Inquiry by April Snow, LMFT – This particular workbook houses several techniques to practice mindfulness, whether you are a beginner or an expert. For example, when stress occurs, the mind and body respond automatically to the stress stimuli, and if not addressed, you’ll experience long-term adverse effects of stress. – Some mindfulness methods include Body Scan Meditation, Simple Deep Breathing, and other realistic ways to incorporate mindfulness in your daily life. Try Softer: A Fresh Approach to Move Us out of Anxiety, Stress, and Survival Mode–and into a Life of Connection and Joy by Aundi Kolber, MA LPC – A book about slowing down, a different approach to dealing with stress and everyday struggles. This book also focuses on extending compassion to yourself, handling your emotions and connections, and finding meaning in how God intended you to be. The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity by Melanie Greenberg, PhD – This book makes you dive into understanding why stress is present in your life, then shows you practical ways and evidence-based methods to manage stress in your life. Are you prepared to live calmly and be happier in your personal and professional life? Check out this book. Stress Relief for Moms and Products For Relaxation Stress is an everyday part of our lives as moms. Yet, as much as we want to close the book and try to raise our flags and call it quits, we push through. Sometimes, we don’t need to push through; instead, slowing down maybe the other option in managing our stress. It makes it harder for moms to care for themselves when stress levels are at the highest point. However, how we respond to stress can change how we handle them and open windows of self-reflection. There are plenty of options for relieving stress for moms, and finding the ones that fit what you need makes all the difference in handling your stress. I hope some of these stress relief products are helpful for moms who are dealing with stress daily. **This information is for general purposes only and not as a substitute for medical or any professional advice. These products were chosen and recommended based on personal use and preference. However, it’s still your responsibility to do your research about such products you’d like to try. Do you have a favorite product helping you relieve stress? Let me know in the comment below. I’d love to hear about some remedies that are working for you. Also, please share this post. Spread the Love30 30Shares

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Barriers to Self-Care for Moms and How to Overcome Them

Jordan N. — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 06:12:19 +0000

Spread the Love49 49SharesLet me ask you these questions, what is it that you need to practice self-care? Have you identified barriers to Self-Care in your life? What are you doing to overcome them? When you think about self-care, it’s frequently associated with self-indulgence, self-love, self-worth, or other self-related avenues. However, you can recognize self-care creates the channel to reach those other branches in caring for yourself. No one can perfectly say they’ve mastered self-care along with motherhood. But, someone or somewhere in this journey we are on – a struggling mom is, of course, trying her best to maintain balance in her life. I perceive other moms are thinking about these matters. We all struggle to pull ourselves from the trenches or burnout trying. You may be one of many moms who needs to look at self-care in-depth and what’s preventing you from practicing them. If you are ready to know how to deal with these roadblocks to Self-Care, let’s go through them now. These barriers aren’t listed in any particular order. Overcoming Barriers To do Self-Care Lack of Motivation This barrier is a big one for most moms. When you think about Self-Care, you may be thinking that it’s just another task to check off your list. As a result, you’ll keep procrastinating these crucial practices until you reach your breaking point. God forbid you may end up in the hospital due to complete weariness — mental, physical, and emotional. Find the reason why you are choosing to do Self-Care. Search for the activities you enjoy the most and start from there. Embrace consistency of the Self-Care practices you’ve chosen. When you see the results of your actions, your motivation shoots high. As you feel more motivated, you’ll take on more daily self-care activities. Lack of Awareness of Needs for Self-Care The lack of awareness is rooted in not reflecting on what you need as a person. Not just what you need as a mom or wife. This barrier is a different kind of roadblock to self-care. However, recognizing your self-care needs can be overcome through self-reflection. Let yourself deeply determine and carefully understand your goals, needs, wants, and plan to achieve them. When it comes to Self-Care, you can ask yourself about the four areas of Self-Care – Mental, Physical, Spiritual, and Emotional. What is the essential need you decided to tackle first? Once you pinpoint these needs, then you can begin to formulate your self-care plan. Read Post: Admit It: Moms Need Self-Care In This Hard Year Setting Unrealistic Expectations as Barriers to Self-care Expectations can get the best of us. Sure, exemptions are handed out. But, right, you have expectations and plotting them in your mind, and seeing it, in reality, may not automatically sync, materialize, or maybe far from it. When moms set expectations up high, the downfall after realizing the inability to meet them may tear you down hard. So lower your expectations and be realistic. Our society nowadays can be overly critical of moms and may also be downright harsh. So steer clear of the shaming and shun away from negative circles. Begin on any attainable self-care methods, realistic goals, and celebrate the outcomes that make you proud of yourself. Although, be prepared that it’s not going to go as planned sometimes. But, your best effort will pay off no matter what. The Guilt as a self-care roadblock Who here hasn’t been on the Guilt train? This mental stressor is one of the massive barriers for moms in the world of self-care. Self-care is for you. However, you know when you indulge in self-care, you feel utterly wrong. Why is that? Possibly, you feel emotional and feel guilty when you leave your newborn with your spouse for a given time to care for your basic needs. The feeling of disdain when you’re going out to work out or take a walk by yourself. When you finally found someone to look after the kids and spend time with your spouse outside to dine. Buying something to improve your self-care practice can provoke a feeling of wasting resources instead of spending it on the family or the house. There are plenty of reasons to pile up on why you think you shouldn’t be wasting your time in Self-care. But unfortunately, that guilt will eventually get you to stop practicing Self-Care at all. Stand firm about your needs. Cater to yourself like you do others. You will feel recharged once you let go of this heavy emotion when caring for yourself. The guilt may inevitably show its head now and then. But, do remember that self-care isn’t a reward. It’s a necessity for your well-being. Negative Thoughts about self-care This ties with the above barrier. Why do you think you need Self-Care? Is it to boost yourself? Is it to improve your health? Your mind can be deceiving at times. However, you don’t need any vain endeavors to prop yourself up. Hence, the distressing thoughts – you need not be wasting any money on yourself, or you’re never going to be better than now. When you think negatively of self-care, you stop yourself from fulfilling what you set on to do. Stop neglecting self-care because you are telling yourself you’re not deserving. Take action on the negative self-talk. First, cut these negative thoughts filled with spiraling doubts and crippling guilt. Then, once you separate these clouds of mental stress, overcome them by setting up good coping skills. Self-affirmations can also help you in the road to kicking these negative thoughts to the curb. This practice of affirmations can help you establish your mindset to influence your thoughts and actions positively. It is a good stepping stone in overcoming barriers to your self-care habit. Not enough time. As moms, our time begins from waking up till we shut our eyes whenever that may be. Unfortunately, when we overload our responsibilities at home, we will never find the time. When we enroll our kids in extra after-school activities, that can fill up your time as well. I’m not saying you don’t even let the kids take classes that can help them out. However, you can prioritize which ones take the top list and readjust other activities for you to create time for downtime. Schedule your Self-care in the calendar. Take advantage of any downtime such as early morning, late evenings, or any part of the day. By scheduling your Me-time, you are also solidifying accountability on your part. So stick to it and show up. Putting yourself last is an obstacle to self-care Setting priorities amid everything can make a mom’s life easier to navigate. Moms will always care for the family, even if they are struggling. When you’re running empty, you’re sabotaging yourself and your family. Your busy schedule isn’t going to go away. However, your health will dive, and it will not remain the same when you keep pushing through it. Let 15 minutes of your time be about you daily. Let your kids/spouse know you’re taking a time out. You are setting boundaries that your time is sacred, and 15 minutes is just what you initially need. Also, you are setting an example to your daughter when she becomes a mother herself, that she’ll have to make time to care for herself. And then, your son will also learn that his wife will need the support to practice self-care for her wellbeing. Healthy self-care can be beneficial for our children to see and internalize if we model it for them. In addition, it sets the example that caring for ourselves matters, as much as caring for others. Self-Worth is dwindling Don’t short yourself out of what makes you happy. Instead, seize the chance when you can to overcome this barrier to your Self-care practices. Defining yourself and your worth doesn’t fall on being a mom; you most definitely are more than that. However, aligning yourself with what you truly desire in life and what you think can open that possibility is the way to go. So don’t let it pass you by. Affirm that – You are enough; never doubt that. Thus, taking the next step in loving yourself is also stretching your heart and strengthening your soul. Practice mindfulness in your daily life. You are intentional in your words toward yourself. Start seeing the good in you as a person; praise your strengths; turn away from self-sabotage. Indeed, happiness comes from within you. No one or nothing makes you feel this core of contentment, like welcoming your worth. Change is Difficult for You Change is scary. Believe me. I was in over myself when I resisted it. Back then, I wasn’t helping myself be the best of myself. It was the opposite. So, I made a choice, and so can you. Learn to open yourself to uncertainties. Take a chance to step into the unfamiliar, undiscovered aspect of your life. What you can discover beyond your life’s bounds may be the very thing that inspires you. Walk out of your comfort zone; it’s frightening to hear it. Moms, conquer change like you did when you became a new mom. Embrace this transformation emerging from your self-care practice. Stay positive of the change that’s happening or will happen. Start in small and manageable steps. Then, expand as you desire to. YOU as one of the barriers to Self-care? Now, let’s be honest. It’s all comes down to you. So choose yourself and take action. This section is the part for me to encourage you to be an active participant in making a more favorable territory for yourself and your health. Wouldn’t it be good to do something just for yourself? Yes! Then, why not start today? Do I hear the answer; I just can’t at the moment? So why not say, let me take this moment, instead! Let’s do it this way. You see a person struggling, and you know, she can somehow do something about it. So wouldn’t you tell her to try? Wouldn’t you offer your genuine support? Write to that person today, tell her what she can do to prioritize herself. Express encouragement that’ll help her get motivated and believe in herself. Write everything you think she can achieve when she’s willing to step out of bounds. Next, seal that envelope and write your name on it. Try not to read it today. Sleep on it and then read it tomorrow, first thing in the morning. Moreover, commit to yourself, be willing to show up, and show kindness towards yourself. **This post is not a sponsored post. However, this post may contain affiliate links. If you click on the product links and purchase through the links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See the Full Disclosure Here. Thank you for your continued support!** As Dr. Kristin Neff emphasized in her book, practice self-compassion, and also, at her website, you can do Self-Compassion Guided Practices and Exercises. In Tackling the Barriers to Self-Care Your willingness to overcome such barriers to self-care can be the key to taking the reigns of self-care. Of course, dealing with or overcoming these self-care obstacles could take a long time for some. But when you start today, you already changed something. You already went outside the linear path you’ve always been on. If you are struggling to manage on your own, the resources out there are limitless. Don’t walk alone. Seek assistance from someone who can: your spouse, family member, close friend, coach, doctor, therapist, or religious mentor. Remember asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. Moms may hesitate to open up to someone for help when they are vulnerable. But know that you are the bravest when you do. I challenge you to start today on your Self-care quest. Don’t let these obstacles to practicing Self-care prevent you from building the good you are into becoming the best you can be. Overcoming obstacles to self-care can be challenging. However, when you’re aware of the...

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