“MOM IS WOW SPELLED UPSIDE DOWN!”

If you’re like me and you scroll through social media you may see ethereal images of moms and their children bonding while walking through fields of sunflowers in September, building snowmen together in January, or doing amazing crafts together on rainy days. Every day is a wonderful adventure, right? Probably not! Let’s face it, real life is not much like social media. Motherhood can be the most rewarding experience but it can also be the most demanding. Every stage of parenthood brings its own challenges whether it is babies and the lack of sleep that can occur during this time, the “terrible two’s” that can challenge even the most patient of us, or the teenage years where every day can bring a new crisis. The daily demands of being a mom can take a toll on your health and increase stress levels. It makes sense that stressed-out moms can create stressed-out kids and nobody wants that!

Stress has been linked to health problems such as heart and immune system issues, digestive disorders, and can also affect our ability to sleep. Many of us just assume that stress is a part of life but it doesn’t have to be. Mother’s Day is coming up so in honor of all the moms out there no matter what your situation – working moms, stay-at-home moms, step-moms, foster moms or moms-to-be, take a break and put yourself first! Sure, it’s probably easier said than done but these tips may help:

– First and foremost, understand that you are not alone. You may feel like you are inadequate compared to everyone else (and social media can absolutely aggravate these feelings.) Talk with other moms who you trust and with whom you feel comfortable. Most likely you will see that they have the same struggles and insecurities you do!

– Try to stay positive. Before getting out of bed in the morning, take a deep breath, think encouraging and affirming thoughts, and think positively about the day to come.

– Laugh. Laughter can relieve stress and break tension. Although it may be difficult, try to find something amusing in stressful situations. Watch funny videos with the kids and laugh together. Hang out with people that make you smile.

– Get away for a little bit. How long has it been since you went out with friends? Or just did something by yourself? Plan some time without the kids and get recharged!

– Eat healthy and try to avoid junk food (treat yourself once in a while of course!) Boost your stress-relieving anti-oxidant levels by consuming more fruits and vegetables.

– Exercise. Exercise helps release endorphins which help you feel better and reduce stress. Take a walk with the stroller, join a gym with baby-sitting services if you need them. Attend a group class if you can fit it into your schedule.

– Stretching, meditation, and yoga. If it’s hard to get out of the house, YouTube is a terrific resource. There are videos that cover all levels of yoga, guided meditation that you can easily do while sitting in the car before leaving for work or picking up the kids, and stretching tutorials that can make your whole body feel better after a long day.

– Channel your inner Marie Kondo and de-clutter! Mess can cause stress. Block some time out once a month to tackle a messy area and see how much tension you can get rid of in the process.

– Unplug. We are all overwhelmed by technology. Take a break. Enough said.

– Gratitude. A daily practice of gratitude can help you de-stress. (i.e. “Today, I am grateful for coffee!”)

– Get back to your hobbies. Remember you have your own interests outside your kids and family life. Take time to do something YOU enjoy. And finally,

– Be kind to yourself! Moms can be very hard on themselves. Parenting is the toughest job in the world and there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Don’t beat yourself up over your mistakes.

Stress can have a huge impact on your overall health. If you need to speak to a doctor or mental-health provider about your issues, then do it. Remember to take care of your dental needs as well. All of these professionals can support you and improve your quality of life. Don’t forget…YOU are amazing!

Happy Mother’s Day to all of the wonderful moms out there!

Some content for this article provided by: www.perfectteeth.com/blog/
Image credit: Pinterest
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