Becoming a mother is one of the most wonderful things that can happen in life. You love your child. You want to do what you can to keep them healthy and happy. They bring you the kind of joy you never thought was possible.
But there’s something else that kids add to your life: stress. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it— being a mom can be exhausting, all-encompassing, and even downright overwhelming.
If you’re a mom experiencing these types of feelings, the good news is that you’re not alone. It’s perfectly normal to fight stress daily, but it doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to lessen the load. We’ve got five things that will help take your mind off your daily stressors, giving you a much-needed break. Even if you only take a small amount of time for yourself daily, the rewards will be worth it.
Immerse Yourself in the Hobby of Reading
There are plenty of ways to fight stress, but this tip is so simple that anyone can do it. Reading isn’t just a fun hobby; it can be a terrific stress buster. Your mind escapes to another place and time, and everything else drifts away. If you’re the type who has never enjoyed reading, it could be that you just haven’t found the right genre or author.
Rather than purchasing books only to discover you don’t like them, why not visit your local library? Many libraries also offer digital copies of books. This means you can check them out virtually and read them on a mobile device. Another tip is to set up a book swap with a friend or a group of friends. You can swap your favorites with each other and not have to shell out cash to purchase each book.
Sometimes, people find it a little easier to get into reading if they are part of a book club. No book clubs in your area? No problem! Start a book club with friends, and turn it into a social activity. You can get together monthly to discuss the book you’ve been reading and anything else that comes to mind. Each person in the club can take a turn picking the book, which could help you find some new favorites.
Exercise Helps You Stay Healthy and Combats Stress
Exercise should also be in your arsenal when combating stressors. Exercise keeps your body fit and healthy, including your mind. When you work out, your body is releasing endorphins. These are more commonly known as the “feel-good hormones.” They help to fight stress, anxiety, and even depression. And what’s even more shocking is that the results are almost instantaneous.
In terms of what exercise is best, you can pick anything that keeps you active for at least 30 continuous minutes. Cardio is fabulous for those starting out, and it can be as basic as walking.
Online Gaming Will Allow You to Focus on Something Else
People, especially mothers, often complain that they can’t turn their minds off at will. The stress just swirls around, and even though you know obsessing won’t help, you can’t change it. Online gaming may be the perfect answer. Because games require attention and focus, all the other thoughts in your head start to slip away. This form of entertainment is highly accessible because you don’t even need a video game console.
Try checking out the trending games on your smartphone’s app store. This is a great place to start, and you may find some new favorites. You can also give online gambling a try through your device’s browser. This provides all the same games and fun you’d find at a physical casino from the comfort of your home. Some casino operators offer 120 free spins for real money as part of a welcome bonus, while social casinos allow you to play strictly for fun without any money on the line.
Lighthearted games such as these are perfect for casual, quick gaming sessions that give your mind a break. And if you do find you’re getting into gaming, you could always get a console and enjoy much grander experiences. Heck, you might even be able to play with your kids!
Get Together With Friends and Enjoy Some Kid-Free Time
Have you ever noticed how relaxed you feel after getting together with a group of friends or your bestie? You have the chance to talk with adults, share some laughs, support each other, and even offer advice. This kid-free time is incredibly important to your mental health and can do wonders for stress.
The problem is that parents often get caught up in daily routines and tasks and forget to make time for friends. A good plan is to set up a standing date where you make time for friends. It could be once a week, once a month, or whatever you like. Just be sure to stick to the plan and remind yourself how great you’ll feel for following through.
Learn What Is and Isn’t in Your Control
There are plenty of valid reasons to feel stressed in life, but then there are also situations that likely don’t warrant such a big reaction. Learning what is and isn’t in your control in life can help you better manage stress. The simple act of letting things go mentally can be freeing and relaxing. It doesn’t mean you aren’t taking things seriously. You have just come to terms with what you do and don’t have an impact on it.
Stress Is Normal for Moms, but There Are Solutions
Understanding that stress is very normal for moms is only half the battle. Learning ways to deal with stress and combat it will help you achieve more balance in your life. It’s about learning what is and isn’t in your control, what’s worth stressing about, and knowing when it’s time to take a moment for yourself.
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Feature Image Credit: Pexels / David Garrison
