If you are struggling to find just enough energy to get through the day, or feeling like you have to rush about with little time to eat (or take a deep breath) in between “what’s next,” then you are probably not showing up as your best self.
This is a hard truth to swallow, and it feels near impossible to pull it all off without dropping a few balls here and there. I get it. It’s still hard for me to this day.
All we want is to provide and give as much as we can to our family, ensuring that all their needs are met. But, If we don’t attend to our needs first, then we run the risk of depleting our parental engine and burning out completely. No fun for anyone.
YOU thriving, grounded and (somewhat) peaceful is the number one thing you can give your kids.
It’s not selfish to put yourself first (even if it’s just for a few minutes!). It’s taking responsibility. Showing your kids how important it is to take care of themselves too. This requires us to take on the superpower that all parents need:
MINDFULNESS.
Mindfulness helps interrupt these patterns. But how do we tap into this amazing superpower?
Research has proven over and over again that the most efficient way is through meditation. When we take even just a few minutes to meditate, or sit quietly in a comfortable space, we will naturally be more present, become more aware of our triggers and our patterns of thinking that bring on stress and anxiety – so we can replenish our patience and our body/mind health.
When you come from a place of peace in mindfulness, you can more easily be present and see the moment for what it really is rather than reacting on instincts.
And when you love someone (including yourself), the best thing you can offer them is your presence.
Here are some other practices to cultivate mindfulness:
- Yoga – Stretching your body in a quiet space, even for just five minutes, helps you reground in your intentions so you are being more proactive, and not reactive throughout the day.
- Meditation – Guided meditations are great for getting started to keep your mind from running all over the place.
- Mindful Walking – You can start at school or camp drop off simply from the building back to the car. Inhale and exhale with each step. Be mindful of your breath and steps as you go.
- Reading Books on mindfulness or meditation.
Try picking one of these to practice regularly, even if just a few minutes a day. But make it everyday. Not sporadic. Start in small portions, then you can build over time. I find morning is the best time to practice, so I can start the day on the right note.
I think it’s fantastic to encourage your kids to start a practice as well. Simple and short. Just a few moments of stillness. But make sure you start first, then bring the idea to your children once you’ve gotten it down and they see you improving and practicing. When they see you growing, they will want to grow too!
Leave a comment below and let me know how you can find more mindfulness in your parenting!
Remember to be intentional.