Ask any mom how she is feeling and inevitably the answer will be some form of old and exhausted.
Postpartum Depletion is a condition that can affect mothers for up to 10 years after the babies are born. And moms aren’t alone. Our stressed out and nutrient deficient lifestyles have left the majority of the population feeling pretty deflated.
While it’s comforting to know we are not alone, you don’t want to spend these vital years feeling wiped out.
What follows is a program to regain your spark. Most likely you already know most of these tips, but there is a significant difference between knowing and doing and the change of seasons is a perfect time to recommit to your health.
REST
Our sleep patterns change as we age. Even if you are logging a sufficient amount of hours, the quality may be diminished, leaving you feeling sluggish. Practicing a “Sunset Wind Down” can dramatically improve your sleep quality.
A perfect time to start is when you put your own kids to sleep. If you find yourself getting frustrated with bedtime resistance, try meditating with them. This can be as simple as reminding them to breathe in and out. This has the benefit of relaxing both of you and gives your children the skill to quiet their mind at an early age.
Once the children are in bed, try a warm bath with Espsom Salt. Commit to no screen time an hour before bed and use that time instead to prepare for the next day.
Journal, practice restorative yoga, or read an actual book. This time is important to disconnect from chaos of the day and prepare your body for rest.
NOURISH
One way to approach nourishing your body is to adopt a MORE instead of a lack mentality.
Try drinking more water to start. Set out a glass of warm water with lemon next to your coffee machine and drink it first thing before you have your morning cup.
Commit to adding more fruits and veggies to your diet. An easy way to achieve this is by investing in a juicer / blender and drinking your vitamins. Experiment with vegetable based recipes and visit your local farmers market for inspiration. This is another fun way to get your kids in on the action.
Speaking of kids, you probably need a break from those lovely all consuming creatures. Set aside time each week for yourself and use this time to do something special. It can be a massage, book club or a bike ride, make it whatever you want it to be. The only important thing is that it’s something you genuinely want to do. No errand running.
It is so easy to fall into a martyr role but the truth is, the more you fill yourself up, the more you have to give to those around you.
MOVE
Achy joints and stiff muscles are our bodies way of telling us its time to get moving.
Sitting at a desk all day and plopping down in front of the tv is not how our bodies are designed to function. Even if you exercise regularly, chances are if you are feeling run down, it’s time to change up your work out routine. You don’t necessarily have to work harder, but you do need to work different. If you are an avid Hatha yoga practitioner, try restorative or yin.
If you are into team sports, try one of the quieter sports, such as running, skiing or yoga. Hiking and biking are both free and get you out in nature.
Gyms offer a plethora of classes these days so if you have ever wanted to try out a dance class, soul cycle or strength training this is the time to do it. Having a varied routine that you enjoy will ensure it becomes part of your lifestyle.
Use this as a starting point to get you thinking about what is really going to restore your passions and vitality. Because the truth, is you deserve to feel your best. Your family will thank you!
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