3 Ways for Moms to Recharge and Relax

Month 2 of quarantining brings about a new set of challenges. Your brain and body might both be on overload as you navigate working from home and living in the same space. Between meetings for work in your living room, helping kids with online schooling, and getting things done around the house, it can get overwhelming for moms and dads too. This Mother’s Day, treat your brain and your body to some well-deserved relaxation time using these three simple tips…

Focus on Physical Wellness:
One of the best ways to calm the brain is to exercise the body. Hormones are an important piece of mental health; many hormones can be activated by exercise to help maintain wellness. Access “feel-good” hormones that combat anxiety and depression like dopamine and oxytocin by working out. Exercising also helps lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. Make time—even just 20 minutes—to get moving. Remember, you don’t have to run 5 miles to give yourself a boost. Yoga, walking, and even stretching are great ways to give your body and brain some much needed me-time while practicing calming mindfulness techniques. Of course, feel free to torch it up with at home cardio routines or try some muscle building Pilates. Whatever you choose, make sure you feel good doing it and let yourself have some fun!

Practice Self-Compassion:
It’s not easy being a parent while navigating new situations brought on by COVID-19. The circumstances require you to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things. As you try something new—like a new schedule for work, or a new activity with the kids—don’t be afraid of failure! It’s okay if it doesn’t go as planned. Being a human means making mistakes. Take a moment to be extra kind to yourself; give yourself some much-needed love and support. Self-compassion is essential to manage automatic negative thinking. When you feel stuck in negative thoughts, pull out a journal or a piece of paper. Write down things you are doing right, things you have accomplished, and how you have grown. While reflecting, give yourself a pat on the back and realize that you are doing the best you can in this moment. Even if things didn’t go well this time, reassure yourself that you can do better next time.

Try Mindfulness Exercises:
Mindfulness is great for moms! It helps parents become aware of their thoughts and feelings in order to manage emotional reactions, avoid negative coping behaviors, and reduce stress. Mindfulness goes beyond yoga and saying some “Ohmmmms.” Knowing your limits, breathing deeply, taking breaks, and being mindful of your attitude are some ways that you get ahead of parenting anxiety. If you’re feeling distressed, try this exercise. Notice areas of tension in your body and relax your muscles, one by one. When our bodies are tense, they are often a reflection of anxious thoughts and feelings. Calm your mind by calming your body. Pay attention to where in your body you hold your muscles tightly. Maybe your shoulders are tense, or your hands are clenched, or your feet are firmly planted on the ground. Take a deep breath and relax your muscles. Pay attention to how it feels to relax each muscle. Make sure to relax each muscle completely, letting your jaw hang loose, or laying down on your back and relaxing your entire body while exhaling.

Being a mom is physically, mentally, and emotionally draining—especially nowadays. This Mother’s Day, focus on YOU. Give yourself the care and relaxation you deserve. You don’t have to go to a spa to feel pampered or at ease. Try out these techniques so that you can empty your emotional overload “bucket” and fill up your reserves. Incorporate these strategies into your daily routine to recharge your mind and body.