Inspired by Blackmores and their #littlelesslittlemore campaign, I’m embarking on a commitment to move more of my energy into activities that benefit me rather than strip me of my vitality and joy.
As a new mum I have found it incredibly difficult to find the time for ‘me’ and to prioritise the things that I know make me feel good, boost my energy and calm my spirit. As a naturopath I know too well the importance of balance and not being able to put this into practice as often as I need to have been a great source of conflict for me.
So on my daughter’s first birthday I feel it’s time to look at this a bit more seriously...before my health starts on that feared downward spiral that commonly follows a period too long without balance. Here are the four steps I’m going to take for greater harmony in my life.
Step 1: Move every day
I always feel so much more alive after using my body, even if it’s 15 minutes of stretching before I go to bed at night. I’m also committing to a yoga class at least once a week, going for a walk with my daughter in the pram everyday the sun is out (to the park, shops, around the block) and getting back into jogging once I feel my energy has returned.
Step 2: Minimise sugar
Feeling depleted, low in energy, and constant breastfeeding naturally draws me to quick calorie dense foods often in the form of sweet treat. I’m snacking on too many home baked goods which are replacing opportunities for a snack richer in nutrients such as a smoothie packed with antioxidant super foods, or a bowl of steamed veges with hummus. But while I’ll be changing my snacks, I’ll still be keeping my ritual of a cup of herbal tea and a piece of raw dark chocolate while my daughter naps in the afternoon!
Step 3: Love and acknowledge myself more
This should probably be Step 1 in order of priority, especially since if we love ourselves more we are more likely to stay committed to the things that make us feel good rather than the things that make us feel, well, crap. We mums simply don’t give ourselves the credit we rightly deserve. I often fall into the trap of thinking of all the things I didn’t get done in a day, overlooking the most important things achieved like nourishing my daughter with healthy meals and milk, meeting her social needs, making the bed, writing my articles, staying connected with friends, and having a meaningful conversation with my husband. So every night before I fall asleep I will run through all the things I achieved in the day and give myself a pat on the back for successfully getting through another day.
Step 4: Meditate and practice gratitude
Meditation isn’t about carving 30 minutes out of your busy day to sit upright on a cushion. I can find times to meditate when I am breastfeeding my daughter, while I am walking, washing the dishes, or cooking dinner. Being thankful and appreciative of my life, my family, and access to good food can be practiced in every moment. I just need to stay present and not get swept away by the long list of things to do and instead be grateful for the ability to do them.
Here’s to a life lived with more balance and appreciation!
What are your favourite things to do to keep you in balance as a busy mum?