Embracing Ease: Making Meditation Simple for Mamas by Kirsty Kohlhagen
In the whirlwind of motherhood, finding moments of peace and calm can feel like an elusive dream. Yet, amidst the chaos of diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights, there lies a sanctuary of stillness waiting to be discovered: meditation. As a mama myself, I understand the challenges of carving out time for self-care amidst the demands of motherhood. But I also know the profound benefits that even a few moments of meditation can bring. Each day I am passionate about how mamas can make meditation easy and accessible, weaving it seamlessly into the fabric of their daily lives.
For many mamas, the idea of sitting down for a formal meditation session may seem impossible, and for my first 12 months of Motherhood it truly was. But what if I told you that meditation can be practiced anywhere, at any time? One simple yet powerful technique is deep belly breathing. As you go about your day, whether you're feeding your baby, rocking them to sleep, or going for a walk, take a few moments to focus on your breath. Place one hand on your belly and the other on your heart, and breathe deeply into your belly, feeling it rise and fall with each inhale and exhale. This simple practice not only calms the mind but also nourishes the body with oxygen, leaving you feeling grounded and centered amidst the craziness.
Meditation doesn't have to be confined to a quiet room or a designated time of day. In fact, some of the most powerful moments of meditation can arise in the midst of everyday activities. As you go about your daily routine, bring mindfulness to each moment. Whether you're washing dishes, folding laundry, or playing with your little one, immerse yourself fully in the present moment. Notice the sensations in your body, the sounds around you, and the feelings that arise within. By bringing awareness to the here and now, you can turn even the most mundane tasks into opportunities for mindfulness and presence.
Making Meditation Mama-Friendly:
As mamas, our days are filled with a constant juggling act of responsibilities and obligations. But amidst the chaos, it's essential to prioritize our own well-being. Here are some tips for making meditation mama-friendly:
Embrace Imperfection: Let go of the idea that meditation has to be perfect or look a certain way. There will be days when your practice feels effortless, and others when it feels like a struggle. Embrace it all with love and compassion, knowing that each moment of presence matters.
Start Small: Begin with just a few minutes of meditation each day and gradually increase the duration as you feel comfortable. Even just a few moments of deep breathing can make a world of difference in your overall sense of well-being.
Be Flexible: Don't be afraid to experiment with different meditation techniques and find what works best for you. Whether it's guided meditations, breathwork, or mindfulness practices, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to meditation.
Involve Your Little One: If you're finding it challenging to carve out time for meditation on your own, consider involving your little one in the practice. You can practice deep breathing together, listen to soothing music, or simply cuddle and connect in a mindful way.
Meditation is not a luxury reserved for those with ample free time—it's a powerful tool that mamas can use to navigate the ups and downs of motherhood with grace and ease to support them feeling radiantly calm. By embracing the practice of meditation in all its forms, from deep belly breathing to mindful moments throughout the day, mamas can cultivate a sense of peace and presence amidst the craziness. So take a deep breath, mama, and know that you are doing an amazing job. The journey of motherhood may be challenging at times, but with a little mindfulness and self-care, you can navigate it with grace and ease.
Kirsty Kohlhagen is a Certified Holistic Practitioner, specializing in Meditation. With a heart full of love and a spirit overflowing with light, Kirsty is on a mission to inspire and guide busy women to feel radiantly calm in the craziness of life. As a mama herself, Kirsty understands the challenges of navigating life's twists and turns while staying true to oneself. She has helped hundreds of women start Meditating to awaken their radiance and glow from within. Kirsty lives on a farm in Denmark, Australia, with her partner, son, dogs, cat and chickens. Her new Radiantly Meditating Membership is launching soon Kirsty Kohlhagen | @kirsty_kohlhagen