The Invisible Motherload by Lisa McCarty
We carry it all on our back,
the invisible load
the weight of anxiety.
As Moms, we hold it
and It feels heavier each day.
In our minds we are,
checking off all the boxes,
but really we aren’t getting it done.
The important work of taking care of us,
as best we can.
Not enough hours in the day,
or minutes in the hour,
or seconds in the minutes.
There’s no time,
too much to be done.
It’s a never ending list,
A ton a bricks on our back
in our bag.
The weighted bag that makes us feel
overwhelmed, overtired and overworked.
Yet somehow we still find gratitude and feel humbled
by the experience of motherhood.
Where is there time for our mental health?
It feels as though there isn’t any.
The saying goes to “put your own mask on before putting on theirs.”
But, really we know it’s all for them.
All of our energy we put out,
all that we do, it’s for them.
To make sure they are
well fed, cared for and loved unconditionally.
Despite all that,
you have to find a place that you can
flourish, thrive and breathe
into your own mask first.
To take the time,
to recenter yourself,
to do deep breaths
and remember where you started.
It started with you.
You were first,
before you had them.
You matter too,
and so does taking care of yourself.
If you are reading this and have forgotten how,
just remember to take a pause,
Inhale and count to three,
then exhale and count to three again.
Release all the tension,
and that heavy weight you carry
on your back.
Recenter and ground yourself.
Find the place of peace,
where you can be you again.
Beyond the lists,
the schedules and
the alarms.
Get up a little earlier to meditate,
write in a journal to express how you feel,
Or talk to your partner or a friend,
Open your mind to know that
you are more than just a Mom.
You are still you.
You can be both.
Do these things,
and your body and mind will heal.
Instead of trying to survive it.
You will be a calmer you,
that is grounded and embracing life,
Be the you,
you want to be for them.
The one that reflects all the love you give them everyday.
Now it’s your turn,
to give back to yourself.
Release the invisible motherload.
Lisa McCarty is a Mom of 2 and a Women's Health Advocate for key issues such as infertility, maternal health, mental health and breast health. She is passionate about sharing her personal experiences in hopes of helping others who may be struggling with the same challenges. She believes it's critical to be your own best advocate, especially when it comes to your health.She also runs a strategic PR consulting firm and works with women entrepreneurs in the health, wellness, fashion and fitness industries. She is helping them to raise their voices and share their stories on how they are making a positive impact on the world.