The longer I travel on this parenting journey, the more I understand the importance of self-renewal to keep myself on task toward the vision I have for my family. As a new mom, I felt guilt if I took time for myself, as though I was putting my needs ahead of my children's needs, but now I understand that my needs are important, too, and that our entire family is better off if I don't neglect myself.
Having time for self-renewal is easier now that my children are older and sleeping in their own beds, but any parent can carve out time to renew yourself. It only takes a few minutes a day, and that makes a huge difference in how you feel and act.
Shh! Quiet
If you have young children, incorporating a daily “quiet time” into your routine can be a sanity-saver. If they will nap, great, but if not, provide books or quiet activities and tell them they may either nap or play (or read if they are able) until the timer goes off.
Start with 10 or 15 minutes and gradually increase quiet time to at least 30 minutes per day. Use that 30 minutes to read, have a cup of tea, call a friend or whatever fills your soul.
I am not a morning person. I would be happy if the world ran of a schedule of 10 am to 2 am. However, I forced myself to give it a try and I can now testify to the benefits of getting up before your children do.
Exercising is a great way to renew your body and mind. Outdoor exercise is especially refreshing as you're soaking up vitamin D as well, but anything that gets you moving is going to make you feel better physically and put you in a better head space.
Cultivating spiritual practices is another way to renew your mind and fill your soul. I like to have a few minutes for a devotion in the morning and I have recently begun a practice of meditation right before bed.
I find renewal in journaling and I have several different journals for different things. I recommend starting a vision journal. Write down your family mission, your goals as a mother, quotes that inspire you, scripture that encourages you and so forth. This is a helpful journal to pull out when your day is going sour or tempers are flaring.
Fresh flowers on your kitchen table, invigorating scents from a candle, intriguing art, and beautiful music all stimulate the senses and impact the atmosphere of your home. I am a firm believer that home should be a safe haven and a place where everyone can feel at peace.
When we feel truly connected to our spouses, children, and friends, we are more at peace and feel happier. Healthy relationships help us all flourish and just a hug or a phone call from a special person can renew you.
Finally, learn to let the little things go and grow your compassion for yourself and then extend it to others. We can let little frustrations throughout the day build up and sabotage our moods.
I am not a morning person. I would be happy if the world ran of a schedule of 10 am to 2 am. However, I forced myself to give it a try and I can now testify to the benefits of getting up before your children do.
I set my alarm for 2 hours before they generally get up, and in that time, I get my workout in and have time to journal, read or listen to a short podcast before we start our day together.
Exercising is a great way to renew your body and mind. Outdoor exercise is especially refreshing as you're soaking up vitamin D as well, but anything that gets you moving is going to make you feel better physically and put you in a better head space.
Related Article: Why Pilates is Like Therapy for New Moms
Cultivating spiritual practices is another way to renew your mind and fill your soul. I like to have a few minutes for a devotion in the morning and I have recently begun a practice of meditation right before bed.
Taking time for prayer, worship, devotions, meditation, etc. will have a positive impact on your day.
Related Article: Capturing Miracle Moments
I find renewal in journaling and I have several different journals for different things. I recommend starting a vision journal. Write down your family mission, your goals as a mother, quotes that inspire you, scripture that encourages you and so forth. This is a helpful journal to pull out when your day is going sour or tempers are flaring.
Read through your notes and jot down your thoughts to bring yourself back to center. Keeping a gratitude journal is also a great way to build positivity into your brain. Write down at least three things you are grateful for each day.
Fresh flowers on your kitchen table, invigorating scents from a candle, intriguing art, and beautiful music all stimulate the senses and impact the atmosphere of your home. I am a firm believer that home should be a safe haven and a place where everyone can feel at peace.
Add your own special touch of beauty to your space (and allow your children to do the same to their spaces).
When we feel truly connected to our spouses, children, and friends, we are more at peace and feel happier. Healthy relationships help us all flourish and just a hug or a phone call from a special person can renew you.
Family: Staying Close in the Digital Age
Finally, learn to let the little things go and grow your compassion for yourself and then extend it to others. We can let little frustrations throughout the day build up and sabotage our moods.
It's very freeing when we can learn to exhale it out, look for the silver lining or even find some humor.