I’ve been feeling really tired lately. The kind of tired where I see mounds of laundry and dishes piled in the sink and I just leave the room because I don’t have the mental space to deal with it. The more I poll my fellow mamas I’m realizing that apathy we are feeling is a common thread. It’s hard to be inspired when we are waiting for normal to return.
Maybe we’re not just “tired”.
Maybe we’re spiritually malnourished and emotionally drained.
Two and a half months of homeschool rolled into a summer of no camps and scheduled activities. Then suddenly out of the darkness comes the light as opportunities to leave the house emerge. At once our schedules are filled with one hour jaunts that have us driving all over town. I’m so grateful my kids and I have the opportunity to extricate ourselves from our cocoons and return to some of our normal activities. But I would also not organize my life this way. Then there’s the small matter of school decisions that will impact the next twelve months of our lives. A lot is being asked of us mamas while we also try to balance work outside our families. That all adds up to stress my friends. Even if we aren’t fully aware of our stress level our bodies absorb it. Now more than ever is the time to double down on self care.
Put your own oxygen mask on first.
We are energetic beings. When our energy is heavy, the more insurmountable our problems seem and more energy and effort is needed to accomplish your goals. That’s why it’s so important to take care of you first. Taking time for self care can raise your vibrational energy so you feel lighter and more powerful. You are better positioned to serve your families and others. Here are four ways to raise your energy that take less than 30 minutes of your precious free time.
: : Disperse Natural Oils Into The Air
Some essential oils have the ability to interact with the brain and the nervous system to impact mood and health. Bergamot oil and citrus essential oils are uplifting.
: : Move Your Body
Never underestimate the power of movement. Any movement is good. Even if it is just stretching by climbing your legs up a wall in your home to relieve a sore back from sitting at a desk or driving in a car too long or getting in some steps.
: : Relax In A Magnesium Bath
Nearly all cultures equate water with energy. Since ancient times people have believed that energy carried by water can transform human energy. Magnesium added to your bath is absorbed through the skin and can have an impact on your overall stress. It is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and adequate levels are essential to sleep and stress management. Add this recipe to your next bath: 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salts, 2 cups of baking soda, and 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oils (lavender is soothing). When you are in your bath, breathe deeply, let your mind idle, and give your feelings, thoughts and emotions the space to show.
: : Commit To A Daily Journal Entry
The practice of journaling gives you permission to let go of the thoughts, ideas, dreams, goals, and emotions that clutter the mind. You give yourself permission to let go when you put your thoughts onto paper. This ritual does not have to be lengthy, commit to a few sentences a day — morning or night — whatever feels right for you. Give yourself grace if you miss a day or too. A mindfulness journal like this one or this one can provide daily prompts if you need help getting started.
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