De-Stress, Not Distress: 8 Ways for Moms to Rejuvenate Themselves

Parenting is a fulltime job. You are expected to be on top of things 24/7. However, as members of the human race you do have limitations. Even the best machines conk out due to heavy usage. And because a number of people rely on you, it is imperative that you keep yourself well-oiled and in shape.

Change in appetite, difficulty in concentration, mood swings, lethargy, and general irritability are some signs that may lead to “parenting burnout.” Remember that your well-being is of the utmost importance because this is reflected on your children.

Allowing yourself to relax and smell the roses is not a selfish act.


1. Sweet Slumber
There are a number of ways to catch up on much needed rest. First thing is to realize that it is necessary for you to do so. The demands of your family or work should sometimes take the back seat. Otherwise, you might end up drowning in exhaustion, irritability, stress intolerance, concentration, and memory problems. All these may result in a number of other health-related problems that you don’t want. Take advantage of the time when your children are resting.

Rest as well. Secure the help of your nanny or other family members in taking care of your kids for a few minutes so that you can get that uninterrupted shuteye. Use ear plugs if necessary to drown out the noise. Sweet dreams.


2. Mental Vacation
Some call this “constructive daydreaming.” These momentary trips can give you the jumpstart that you need. Your state of mind affects your body, thus, these “vacations” can be quite restful.

Close your eyes and picture the place that you wish to be in. Read up on this dream location so you can picture a detailed setting. The trick is to engage all your senses with your imagination. Visualize sipping that fine red wine or soaking in the warm colors of the Mediterranean.

This can be done during coffee breaks or during the nights you can’t sleep. The more practice you have, the more pleasurable it gets. Take mental snapshots of the places you have visited so that you can go back to it again and again.

This is your happy place after all. Bon voyage.

Click here to see more ways for moms to de-stress.

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Read on to see more ways for moms to de-stress.

3. Time Out
Seclusion is necessary once in a while. It can be spent reading a book, writing down your thoughts, painting masterpieces, listening to music, or even taking solitary walks in the rain. Consider these moments as dates with yourself.

This provides introspection and relaxation. It always pays to be in touch with your inner self. Pause.


4. Chill Out With Pals
Coffee, movie, a round of drinks or just inane banter with friends is a welcome break from your daily routine. More importantly, when you feel like exploding, time with your best friends may just be the kick you need. Once in a while you need an outlet. Cheers.


5. Exercise
Avoiding exercise because you feel tired is a common excuse. On the contrary, working-out recharges your batteries. It beats exhaustion because the physical routine floods the body with endorphins that create much needed energy. So take that power walk, get on a treadmill, or dance your fatigue away. Not only will it put that zip in your day, it will also reap healthy rewards for your body. 5…6…7…8.


6. Indulge
Once in a while you can give yourself a little bit of credit. Rewarding one’s self is a must. It can be a day in the spa, a trip to the driving range, a new pair of jeans, a long coveted jacket, or a gastronomic experience.

These pampering or small treats are quite encouraging and can be very inspiring. You deserve these because you are doing a good job. If you are not convinced, just look at your children.


7. Playing With Your Sponge Spouse
Nothing beats stress better than having a spouse who is ever-willing to be a sounding board. The security that you have a partner to face the day ahead, trials and tribulation notwithstanding, is more than enough ammunition, however battle-scarred you may be. Of course, what follows is reinforcement. Intimacy, especially if it’s hot and steamy, forges you to charge ahead.


8. Lights out.
Your well-being is of the utmost importance; it directly reflects on your parenting style and affects your kids.


Photo from flickr.com