Guest post written by Dr. Mary Bran

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Being a mom is a rewarding but demanding job. From managing the household to caring for children, moms often feel overwhelmed and stressed. Maintaining mental health is crucial for moms to handle daily challenges and enjoy their lives. However, many moms neglect their mental well-being, focusing instead on the needs of their families. Creating a daily mental health routine can help moms care for themselves while still being there for their loved ones. This article will outline simple daily practices that can support moms in maintaining their mental health, starting with a positive morning routine, midday practices to manage stress, and an effective evening routine for a good night’s sleep.

Morning Routine

Starting the day with a positive mindset can set the tone for the rest of the day. Here are some practices that can help moms begin their day on the right foot:

1. Mindful Waking and Stretching: Instead of jumping out of bed and rushing into the day’s tasks, take a few moments to wake up mindfully. Stretch your body gently, focusing on how each part feels. This can help you become more aware of your body and start the day calmly.
2. Morning Meditation or Deep Breathing Exercises: Spend a few minutes meditating or doing deep breathing exercises. This can help clear your mind and reduce any anxiety you might feel about the day’s responsibilities. Simply sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. Focus on your breathing and let go of any distracting thoughts.
3. Setting Daily Intentions or Goals: Before diving into your tasks, take a moment to set some intentions or goals for the day. These don’t have to be major achievements; they can be simple things like “I will take a short walk today” or “I will spend quality time with my kids.” Setting intentions can give you a sense of purpose and direction, helping you stay focused and positive throughout the day.
4. Nutritious Breakfast for Energy and Mental Clarity: Eating a healthy breakfast is essential for maintaining energy and mental clarity. Choose foods that are rich in nutrients, such as fruits, whole grains, and proteins. Avoid sugary cereals or pastries, as they can cause energy crashes later in the day. A balanced breakfast can help you feel more alert and ready to tackle your tasks.

Midday Practices

As the day progresses, it’s important to manage stress and maintain focus. Here are some practices to help you stay on track:

1. Short Breaks for Relaxation and Mindfulness: Taking short breaks throughout the day can help you relax and recharge. Spend a few minutes away from your tasks, practicing mindfulness or simply resting. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and let go of any stress or tension. These breaks can help you stay calm and focused, making you more productive in the long run.
2. Physical Activity or Quick Exercise Routines: Incorporating physical activity into your day can boost your mood and energy levels. Even a short walk around the block or a quick exercise routine can make a big difference. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine.
3. Healthy Lunch and Hydration: Eating a healthy lunch and staying hydrated are crucial for maintaining energy and focus. Choose a balanced meal with plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can make you feel sluggish and tired.
4. Gratitude Journaling or Positive Affirmations: Take a few moments during the day to practice gratitude or positive affirmations. Write down things you are grateful for or repeat positive statements to yourself. This can help shift your focus from stress and negativity to positivity and appreciation. Gratitude journaling and affirmations can boost your mood and help you stay motivated.

Evening Routine

Continuing with an effective evening routine, here are the remaining practices to help you wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep:

1. Reflective Journaling or Family Discussions: Spending time to reflect on your day can be very therapeutic. Writing in a journal about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences helps you process your day. If you prefer, you can have discussions with your family about what happened during the day. This not only helps you unwind but also strengthens family bonds. Sharing your day’s highlights and challenges can make you feel supported and connected.
2. Light Stretching or Yoga: Incorporating light stretching or yoga into your evening routine can help your body relax and prepare for sleep. Gentle movements and deep breathing can release any tension or stress accumulated during the day. This practice can also improve flexibility and overall well-being. Even a short session of 10-15 minutes can make a significant difference in how relaxed you feel before bed.
3. Limiting Screen Time Before Bed: Reducing screen time before bed is crucial for better sleep quality. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Try to turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, engage in calming activities like reading a book, listening to soft music, or practicing relaxation techniques. This will help your mind to wind down and prepare for sleep.
4. Creating a Calming Bedtime Ritual: Establishing a calming bedtime ritual signals to your body that it’s time to sleep. This can include activities such as taking a warm bath, reading a soothing book, or listening to relaxing music. A consistent routine helps your body recognize when it’s time to wind down, making it easier to fall asleep. These rituals create a peaceful transition from the day’s activities to a restful night.
5. Ensuring a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Your sleep environment plays a significant role in the quality of your sleep. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and cool. Invest in a comfortable and firm mattress that supports your body and enhances your sleep quality. Comfortable bedding and pillows also contribute to a restful night. Keep the room tidy and free from distractions to create a serene atmosphere conducive to sleep.

Creating a daily mental health routine is essential for moms to maintain their well-being and handle the challenges of motherhood. By starting the day with a positive morning routine, managing stress with midday practices, and winding down with an effective evening routine, moms can take care of their mental health. Mindful walking, meditation, setting daily goals, and a nutritious breakfast can set a positive tone for the day. Short breaks, physical activity, a healthy lunch, and gratitude journaling can help manage stress and maintain focus throughout the day. Reflective journaling, light stretching, limiting screen time, creating a calming bedtime ritual, and ensuring a comfortable sleep environment can help moms unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

Taking care of mental health is not a luxury but a necessity, especially for moms who juggle multiple responsibilities. By incorporating these simple daily practices into their routine, moms can improve their mental well-being, making them better equipped to handle the demands of motherhood. Remember, a healthy mom is a happy mom, and taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your family.

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