Sunday, November 6, 2011

Nurturing the Mama

As I reflect on the fact that it has been nearly 4 months since I have made a post to my actual blog, I realize I am learning a lot about balance right now. While my Facebook page has been decently active, I haven't found more than five minutes to sit down and write for this blog. What I have been doing is spending more time taking care of myself, and less time online.

Our lives as parents are busy ones. "Work" doesn't end when the lights turn out at the end of the day. We are "on call" all the time! If you are like me and burning the candles at both ends, it is so easy to get burned out/stressed out/tired. So how do we keep it all in balance? A good place to start is making sure you are taking care of yourself, first.



Here are a few tips to inspire you to nurture yourself more:

-take 3 deep breaths in a row. Right now (while you are reading this, seriously!)
-practice journal writing for a few minutes. Clear your mind and empty it onto paper.
-make yourself a balanced meal
-drink a tall glass of water
-take a bath.... without a child in the tub with you!
-indulge in a good book whenever you can sneak time
-take a long shower... without a child in the tub with you!
-do a few yoga postures... stretch your body in any way that feels good
-go for a walk, even ten minutes is refreshing
-consciously relax all the muscles of your body, from your head to your toes
-if you are in a difficult or stressful situation, pause, take a few deep breaths, and then think about how you want to respond before you do (this is a tough one, but so effective!)
-reach out to something bigger than yourself (this may be God, Allah, the Universe- whatever label you want to use). Pray!
-call a good friend who you know will listen
-sing along to a favorite song.... dance, too!




Many of these suggestions can be done with your child(ren). Some (like the indulging in water purification) are best done with a little privacy. I hope you find several moments every day to nurture yourself, to listen, to respond, to breathe. We are better parents when we are balanced! Remember, taking care of yourself, taking time for yourself- it isn't selfish- it is necessary in order to be able to give unconditionally to our families.

What tips do you have for nurturing yourself, and keeping in balance?