Free shipping on orders over $100
October 30, 2020
I love seeing people who are going from yoga to the coffee shop to a beautiful nature walk on the weekends. But I think to myself, how are they fitting this in? I am wondering if I even brushed my teeth I'm so busy! Then I realize....wait a minute, they don't have kids. Self care is so much easier before kids. But, is that just an excuse we keep telling ourselves? That we just don't have the time? Maybe we adjust the image of what self care is. It doesn't have to include 4 hours at a spa or a 3 hour brunch... There are so many ways that we can just pause and take a moment to do something for our mind and body that we can easily fit in our day.
When you pause and become mindful of your breath, it does wonders for your racing mind and anxious thoughts. Pick an object that you see often. Examples are light switches, door knobs, a mirror, a glance at your toes...whatever it may be. Just pick something and use it as a trigger. Let's say you picked a door knob. Every time you see a door knob, pause for 30 seconds and do a breathing exercise. Force yourself until it becomes a habit and throughout the day that you do it 4 times without realizing it. Breathing 4 times x 30 seconds is 2 minutes only. That's 2 minutes of your day you take time to reset your mind by being conscious of your breath. Let me teach you how to breathe.
This is called box breathing. Fun fact, marines use this breath out in the field to keep them calm and focused. Just try it, you will be amazed at how much it will relax you!
You are not a machine. Asking for help is just as important as learning to say no. If having your morning coffee on your porch with some vitamin d will set the tone in a positive way for your day, then ask your partner, a friend or your neighbor to keep an eye on the kids. Even if it's just for 10-20 minutes. You need to take care of yourself to properly take care of others. Remember that asking for help does not mean you can't do it, it means you want to be your best version of yourself. And your family deserves to see you feeling your best!
When the kids are at school or taking a nap, try putting on a podcast in the background. If you're at work then listen to it on your lunch break or on the way to work in the morning/night. This is a great way to stay connected or learn something new. For me, I like incorporating a bit of humor into my podcasts and really enjoy all of these on this list. Laughing keeps me present and who doesn't love to laugh! You can also listen to health and wellness and personal development podcasts to level up in your life. I love Dave Asprey, Jenna Kutcher and Tony Robbins.
Something about a cozy hot cacao or a turmeric latte does wonders. Just holding the mug in you hand and feeling your body relax and react to the soothing properties of your drink is enough for a quick 5 minute escape.
"Hot beverages are relied upon for waking up, punctuating workdays, gaining favor, welcoming home, relieving illness and lulling to sleep. They can be cheering, reviving, relaxing, cooling (if you’re hot) and warming (when you’re cold). And they soften the pace of life. You can’t guzzle a hot drink, it has to be taken slowly (making it the perfect way to measure out breaks), and while you’re sipping and blowing and waiting for that optimum comfortable drinking temperature, you can inhale and warm your nose with the aromatic vapors."
- The Guardian
The internet has endless lists of yummy soul warming beverages but I thought I'd save you some time and give you this amazing list here
They don't use the phrase walk it off for no reason. Walking helps relieve stress which in return puts us in a calmer and more peaceful state of mind. You can make it a moving meditation. Aside from clearing your mind and helping your mental health, it's a great way to sneak in something physical to get your heart rate going and circulate your blood. If you are finding trouble sneaking away from your little one for a quick stroll, this is when babywearing comes in handy! Put them in a Nalakai Ring Sling Carrier and enjoy as both of you remain calm and you get to care for yourself a bit while snuggling your baby at the same time :)
Comments will be approved before showing up.