If you are busy mom like me, stress comes with the territory. With a little planning and preparation, you can reduce stress in your life tremendously.
Time Management
- Take some time to prioritize your day each morning
- Create short to-do lists for each day, but don’t go beyond the weekend.
- Consider using a timer. If a task is taking much longer than you expected or you are getting side tracked, move on!
- Consider delegating tasks on your list to your kids, spouse, or even a friend. It’s OK to ask for help.
Prepare for the Day
- Take some time each night to prepare for the next day.
- Write out a meal plan and pack lunches ahead of time.
- Pick out clothes for you and the kids and lay them out.
Stop and Enjoy the Little Things
- Take a break and enjoy the moment from time to time
- Focus on small details like the taste of a food or a lovely view from the car.
Keep Moving
- Regular exercise is key to help reduce stress
- Small bursts of activity help even if you can’t get in a full workout
- If you are stuck at a desk, try to move for at least 5 minutes each hour.
Remember to Laugh
- Laughter releases happy hormones
- Share a funny story
- Ask a friend to tell you a joke
- Listen to a comedy radio station
Enjoy Nature
- Spend time outdoors
- Natural scents and sights have a calming effect
Take time to Breathe
- Take slow deep breaths to reduce stress
- You’ll lower your heart rate and blood pressure too.
Meditate
- Meditation does not need to be formal
- Take time to clear your mind even in the shower or bath
- Here is my meditation 101 video on my YouTube channel
Keep a Gratitude Journal
- Every night, write at least one sentence about something that brought you joy.
- No accomplishment is too small
Consider Vitamins and Natural Supplements
- Natural supplements like Natrol – 5HTP can help minimize stress. It is a fast dissolve, drug-free, plant-derived mood enhancement supplement that stimulates calmness throughout the body by naturally increasing serotonin levels
- I also take melatonin to help with sleep
- Vitamin D is also great to combat the winter blues when you might not be getting adequate time outside.