As a mom, you’re probably no stranger to juggling a thousand things at once. However, you’re also probably no stranger to finally hitting a wall. You know, that wall. The one you hit going a million miles an hour, sometimes when you least expect it.
If there’s anything to take away from this, it’s that while you are awesome and incredible and capable, you’re still human. And in the midst of all you do each day, it’s imperative to take care of yourself. Read on for some ways to fight the burnout and regain the energy you need to feel your best.
Give Your Body the Fuel It Needs
Taking care of yourself means more than just washing your face before bed. One of the most important things you can do for your body is to fuel it well. How are you doing with that?
Sticking to a healthy and balanced diet, drinking enough water, getting enough exercise and listening to your body are all things you should prioritize. If you’re not doing this, it’s time to make some changes. Remember that even smaller ones will make a big difference in your energy levels, so don’t over complicate it. It can be as simple as prepping batches of steel-cut oats for breakfast, adding an energy renew supplement to your regimen or getting at least 15 minutes of movement each day.
Know Your Limits and Set Boundaries
In order to maintain your sanity and energy, honoring your limitations and setting boundaries is essential. This can be tough, especially for moms. When you’re being pulled in so many directions and have so many people depending on you, it can be hard to step back or say no. However, the burnout that follows when you don’t is rarely worth it.
Don’t be afraid to say you can’t make it to three baseball games in the same afternoon. Remember that frozen nuggets and fries exist for a reason, and your kids won’t grow extra limbs if you serve that for dinner every now and then. Don’t feel guilty about leaving your desk at lunch to enjoy something delicious or head out for a walk. And it’s perfectly OK if the laundry sits in the dryer for three days.
Make Sleep a Priority
Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. Are you getting enough, and is it good? Did you know that women tend to require more sleep than men?
When you’re well-rested, you have a certain energy that can’t be replicated. When you wake up refreshed, alert and balanced, there’s a great chance that the day ahead will follow suit. However, when you start the day feeling groggy, the day ahead will likely reflect that.
Simple adjustments to your nightly routine, such as adding in a cup of chamomile tea or taking a warm bath, will go a long way in preparing you for a restful night. Daily exercise is a wonderful way to get your body on a good sleep schedule — but avoid working out too close to bedtime.
Take Time for Yourself
Moms have a demanding job, and it rarely allows for much time spent alone. Even though this is considered normal, carving out time alone is still necessary to regroup and recharge. This can mean many things, but most importantly, it’s a chance to quiet your mind. Take this time to throw yourself into a hobby, discover something new about yourself, try out a yoga sequence or simply do nothing at all.
It’s a running joke that moms are always tired. Images of moms wearing yoga pants in the middle of a messy house or running out the door with a coffee in one hand, a kid and four bags in the other are all too common. While this isn’t always too far from the truth, you need to remember that you’re important too. How you feel matters. Taking care of yourself is a must. It will be time well spent.
