Being a mum demands all our time and energy. Although we may start the day in good spirits, it’s easy to feel depleted or stressed by 11am. And then one small incident can tip us over into a bad mood.
Don’t let a bad moment become a bad day. These quick health and wellbeing tips for mums will help you reset, recharge and get back into the day refreshed.
1. Breathe
This may sound like a pointless tip for reducing stress because we breathe automatically. But when we’re stressed or busy, we take short breaths and don’t get enough air in. Taking slow, deep breaths brings more oxygen into your body, which gives you more energy, and releases stress and anxiety.
2. Listen to your body
When the outside world is noisy, as mums we find it hard to hear what our body needs. Go somewhere quiet and take notice of every part of you – from your head down to your toes. Take note of any feelings. Do you have a headache? Are you dehydrated? Are you hungry? Then give your body what it needs.
3. Cook something healthy
When you’re stressed or tired, it’s easy to reach for sugar and coffee. But to change your mood, a fruit smoothie is a better alternative. Healthy habits like eating fruit can help balance your blood sugar and increase your energy levels, so you’ll be ready for anything.
4. Sit in the sunshine
There’s nothing worse than being stuck in the house day after day. Sunshine gives you much needed vitamin D, and releases serotonin, which increases calm and focus. Just a few minutes of sunshine a day can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing.
5. Play with your pet
If you have a pet, you have access to a stress-buster right there. Animals, especially dogs, help reduce stress, depression and anxiety. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, take a moment to lie down or play with your furry companion. They will love the attention too!
6. Make a list of happy things
When we’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to think only negative thoughts and forget how much is good in our lives. Gratitude lists are very popular, but even taking a few minutes to think about what makes you happy in your life can bring perspective and reduce the negative dialogue.
7. Watch something silly
These days, we have entertainment on tap, so you should use it if you need to. Laughter releases dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins in our bodies, which make us feel happy. So take a few minutes to watch your favourite sitcom or hilarious YouTube star when you’re stressed and you’ll quickly feel better.
8. Clear the clutter
When our lives are full of things to do, the mental clutter can lead to physical clutter. Without us realising it, our home can start to reflect the chaos we feel in our head – and the mess can then exacerbate how we feel. So take a few minutes to clear the physical clutter and you will feel better instantly.
9. Play your favourite song
Let’s face it – hearing our favourite song on the radio makes us immediately happier. Music can change our mood in an instant, filling our body with happy chemicals and banishing negative thoughts. So turn on your favourite song and sing like no one is listening!
10. Call a friend
When all else fails, you might just need contact with another grown-up human. We all do. Reach out to someone you trust who is a positive force for good in your life and will give you some perspective.
Whatever you do, never ignore your feelings – they will just escalate and make even small incidents hard to deal with. Cut those weeds out before they grow and take over the garden!
If you’re ready to make a positive and sustainable change in your life, book an obligation-free call here and see how we can help you to get started.
