Do you have a toddler? Do you want to relax? Odds are if you’re the primary caregiver of your little one, you aren’t getting too much relaxation time. And who can blame you? You have to worry about your toddler climbing the pantry, pulling down the T.V., and getting in some naps so they don’t turn into Gremlins by being up too late.
The truth is, in this stage of life, relaxation will look a bit different than it did before kids. This isn’t a bad thing, it simply means that you need to re-evaluate what it looks like to relax more naturally now that you have kids. And newsflash, you can still relax even while they are with you. Here are some natural relaxation tips for busy moms of toddlers, and well, everyone else too.
Take a Walk in Nature
Walk through the neighborhood and admire the flowers together or take some time to explore a local park. Nature is a great way to relax, reduce stress, and get some exercise. Getting outdoors can also help you get vitamin D from the sun, which is important for overall health and well-being. If possible, try to go outside for at least 20 minutes every day and let your little one burn off some of that energy that has them bouncing off the walls.
Try Aromatherapy
If you’re looking to relax and de-stress, aromatherapy is an effective way to do that. Essential oils are extracted from plants and flowers, and they can be used on the skin or in a diffuser. Aromatherapy has been shown to help with anxiety, reduce stress and so much more. It also helps with pain management—if you have backache from spending too much time sitting on the floor with your toddler, certain oils can help. Additionally, other herbs and supplements like magnesium or topical CBD can reduce pain and help you relax.
Practice Deep Breathing Exercises
Practice deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing is a great way to relax and reduce stress. It can be done anywhere, at any time, and with or without your child present. Try taking several deep breaths in through the nose, holding them for 5 seconds, then exhaling slowly through the mouth. Repeat as many times as needed until you feel relaxed.
Stay Hydrated
Moms know it’s important to stay hydrated, yet they often forget to prioritize it at home. Drinking water will help keep your energy up, so you can get through the day without feeling exhausted and worn out. Make it a habit to drink water before (and during) every meal and snack, and even when you feel hungry or tired or stressed out. This is especially important if you’re still breastfeeding as well.
Eat Well
Eating well has numerous benefits. A balanced diet full of a variety of foods will help you feel energized and healthy, as well as keep your blood sugar levels balanced. This balance can lead to more stable moods and less stress. Eating protein, fats, and carbohydrates found in fruits and vegetables are best.
Nap at the Same Time Your Toddler Does
The dishes can wait, and the laundry can wait. A stressed-out mama is no good to anyone. If you can manage to nap at the same time as your toddler, you’ll be able to get some much-needed rest while they spend their afternoon either sleeping or playing with toys. Even if you don’t nap, taking a break and reading a book or listening to calming music can help you unwind.
Make Naps Easier for Yourself
Many mothers find that getting their toddlers to nap is much harder than falling asleep themselves. If this sounds like you, try creating a relaxing sleep environment by dimming lights, turning off electronics, and softening soundscapes so that nothing distracts them from their dreamland retreats.
Conclusion
Stress can cause you to feel tired, irritable, and unfocused. You may experience headaches, muscle pain, and even digestive issues when you’re stressed. But by incorporating relaxation into your daily routine, you can help yourself stay calm and centered even when life gets crazy. So, grab a glass of water, take that deep breath, and do something nice for yourself today.
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