Motherhood During Quarantine: How to Practice Mindfulness
From helping my three sons with their virtual learning, preparing their snacks and meals—in addition to fulfilling my roles as a therapist and wife—each day can have its ups and downs. As a mother, I go above and beyond for my children because I love them. However, the burnout and mental stress from trying to balance all of these roles are very real for many of us. According to a 2009 Harvard study, mental health issues, such as maternal depression, can negatively impact the brain development and mental health of children. That’s right—your kids feed off your mood and energy. One of the greatest gifts you can give them is your own happiness and inner peace.
In the midst of a pandemic, regardless of whether you’re a mom or not, this is the perfect time to learn about a simple, everyday practice that can help alleviate your stress and anxiety and boost happiness and immunity. Remember, we all deserve self-love and compassion! I know how hard it can be to find the time these days but we can find 3-5 minutes somewhere in there. I look for times in the morning or evening right before getting in or out of bed. Sometimes, I find the time in my car in the carpool line or waiting to grab the kids from their afterschool activities.
Mindfulness is the meditational practice of taking a step back from your hectic life and allowing your mind to relax and be free of chaotic thoughts.
Find a quiet space you can use for any length of time (even 1-5 minutes works). In an area away from your family, you may kneel, sit on the floor, or use a chair—whatever setting or position feels comfortable.
Feel your body and breath. While in this calming position, become one with your body and follow your breath pattern as you inhale and exhale.
Pay attention if your mind wanders. Learning to focus during mindfulness can be difficult, especially if stressful thoughts and sensory factors are present. However, whenever you feel your mind wandering, don’t panic. Just slowly turn your attention back to your breathing.
Be kind to yourself. As a mother and “superwoman,” you are constantly judging yourself for what you can and can’t do. This is a judgment-free space to restore your focus and energy, so don’t beat yourself up if you get distracted or it takes you a little while to get used to this exercise.
Go ahead and try practicing mindfulness during your day and see if it improves your overall mood. Here are some other easy mindfulness exercises you can do anywhere. They have certainly helped me relieve some of my stress and become less overwhelmed by my busy life.
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