5 Quick Stress Reduction Tips for Moms by Kristel Bauer
I remember when my first child was born. I was overjoyed with so much love and happiness, and I was also totally exhausted. Being a parent is a full-time job complete with lots of amazing moments, in addition to loads of worry and stress. The following stress reduction techniques come from a blend of personal experience, including lots of trial and error, from my training and education in healthcare, as well as from my many conversations as a keynote speaker and podcast host talking with parents trying to navigate the many pulls on their attention. I hope that these suggestions help you feel your best wherever life takes you.
Let Go – We have an idea of the way that our day should go and then life has other plans! Parents know this all too well. Whether your child spills their breakfast all over the floor right before you need to rush out the door, or your child wakes up not feeling well on a day with a full agenda…Being a parent is filled with unexpected twists and turns that require you to let go and be flexible. In times of stress, resistance to the present moment can add fuel to the fire. Instead of pushing against what is, try this instead. Allow, Accept and Adapt. Allow means being in the present moment without resistance. Accept that the present moment is what it is, and then adapt by coming up with a new plan given the current circumstances.
Morning Routine – How you start your day will impact all of your day. I know that mornings can be tough depending on your children’s sleep patterns but aim to have a little time to yourself first thing in the morning, even if it’s just five minutes. Do something rejuvenating for your mind and body and set intentions for yourself and how you want to show up that day.
Movement – Exercise is an incredible stress reliever! When I was practicing in Integrative Psychiatry, I would recommend movement for mental health on a regular basis. Aim to incorporate movement into your day wherever you can. Talk to your healthcare provider about any restrictions specific to you.
Breathe – Many of us clench our muscles and breathe more shallowly with stress. Notice what happens to your breathing when you feel stressed and the next time you are feeling overwhelmed intentionally relax your muscles and relax your breath, breathing from your belly.
Relationships – Having high quality relationships is a key component of happiness and well-being. Nurture the relationships in your life and ask for help when you need it. Having other parents to talk to who are going through similar things can be extremely helpful. Look to build a community with other parents and make sure to talk to your healthcare provide if you are struggling.
I hope that you found some helpful suggestions here to easily incorporate self-care into your day. You deserve to feel your best! And to be the best version of yourself for your children. If you would like to learn more about my work, including my speaking topics and my Live Greatly podcast you can do so here.
Disclaimer: This content purely represents the opinion of the author and is not medical advice or treatment recommendations. Always talk to your healthcare provider about recommendations specific to you.
Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness expert, popular keynote and TEDx speaker, and the host of top-rated podcast, “Live Greatly,” a show frequently ranked in the top 1% for self-improvement. Kristel is an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant with clinical experience in Integrative Psychiatry, giving her a unique perspective into optimizing mental well-being and attaining a mindset for more happiness and success in the workplace and beyond. With a mission to support companies and individuals on their journeys for more happiness, success, and well-being, Kristel taps into her unique background in healthcare, business, and media, to provide invaluable insights into high power habits, leadership development, mental well-being, peak performance, resilience, success, wellness at work, and a modern approach to work/life balance.
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