How I Recharge as a Mama
Being a mom is hard work! There are so many days where I’m so excited to see my son but I’m also trying to brace myself for having to find energy I don’t have. I mean seriously, we wear so many hats from mom, spouse, personal chef, life teacher, business owner and employees but at the end of the day, there’s literally a little life depending on us to show up day to day. This can be easier said than done and I’ve learned how to recharge and give myself grace as a mother.
Listen to your body
I remember when everyone used to tell me, “sleep when the baby sleeps” and that was so difficult. Not because I wasn’t tired but because I felt like there were so many other useful things I could be tackling, while he was sleeping. I could wash the dishes, watch my favorite show uninterrupted or flip the laundry. As my son entered his toddler years, this need for “sleeping while he slept” never ceased and nor did the desire to do other things on my to-do list. So I split the time. When he lays down for a nap, I pick 1-2 things to accomplish for half of his naptime and for the other half, I squeeze in a nap. This way I feel accomplished but I’m also giving myself time to rest. If I feel really tired, I rest first and if I have trouble getting up, I scratch the naptime to-do list and just sleep.
Ask for Help
This is probably the hardest thing for me to do, especially since my family lives over two hours away. I often have to lean on my ex-husband and his family when I’m in need of help related to my son. So I try not to overdue it to keep that relationship well. However, if I truly need it, especially if I’m sick or fighting exhaustion, I will ask. Usually we can work something out.
Don’t be guilty doing something for me
Since we split Tristan’s schedule and I don’t have him full time, I utilize that me time to the max. If I need to do something for me or if I’m excited about alone time, I don’t feel sorry about it because I know that I am a more patient and engaged mother after I have that time alone. We all are honestly. We are still individuals and need time with self to stay connected and engaged with who we are. That’s so important in motherhood.
How are you intentional about recharging as a mom?
