Finding Balance: How Moms Can Prioritize Their Health Amidst Daily Responsibilities

Being a mom is often a whirlwind of tasks, from preparing breakfast to getting the kids ready for school and managing a host of daily responsibilities. In the midst of this hustle, it is all too easy for moms to neglect their own health. Yet, maintaining good health is vital not just for moms but also for their families. Prioritizing self-care and establishing healthy habits can help moms lead a balanced life that promotes overall well-being. In this post, we will explore practical ways moms can prioritize their health, even with busy schedules.

The Importance of Prioritizing Health

Many moms find themselves trapped in a cycle of caregiving that can lead to ignoring their own well-being. Prioritizing health is essential because it sets the stage for increased happiness and energy. Healthier moms are more attuned to their children's needs, are better equipped to meet daily challenges, and can effectively manage stress.

For instance, studies reveal that 75% of adults who exercise regularly report improvements in mood and mental clarity. By modelling healthy behaviours, moms can positively influence their children. When kids see their moms engaging in good habits, they are more inclined to adopt those same habits, fostering a healthier lifestyle for the entire family.

Create a Consistent Routine

Establishing a consistent daily routine can significantly help moms in prioritizing their health. A structured routine creates dedicated slots for self-care, exercise, and relaxation.

Start by setting a regular wake-up time to establish a feeling of normalcy. For example, waking up 30 minutes earlier each day can open up time for a brisk walk, a brief meditation session, or enjoying a nutritious breakfast. This simple change can prevent health from being overlooked amidst various daily tasks. Here is an example of what I aim for each morning: Wake up 6am: complete a few rounds of deep breathing, get myself ready (get dressed, brush hair etc.), pet my dogs (calming activity), and make a high protein/low carb breakfast (eggs, turkey bacon, snap peas, kimchi, avocado) before my son gets up by 6:45am. This simple and short routine allows my body to feel relaxed and ready for the day instead of starting it stressed. Remember to start small and find something easy you can introduce to your daily morning routine so you don't feel overwhelmed by it. You can always build upon it over time as you find what works for you and how much you can change.

Incorporate Exercise into Daily Life

Finding time for exercise in a busy schedule can be daunting. However, workouts do not always require significant time at the gym. Moms can integrate physical activity into their routine in simple, fun ways.

For example, organize family bike rides, play soccer in the park, or turn the living room into a dance floor for family dance-offs. These shared activities promote fitness while bonding family members. Additionally, short bursts of exercise, such as ten-minute stretches or quick bodyweight workouts, can add up over time and keep moms physically active. Research shows that just 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly can enhance overall health. I offer personalized exercise programs through my app (includes video examples) that can be done at home with limited equipment so they can fit into your busy days.

Coaching App to help you implement personalized workouts at home.

Incorporate Family Fitness Challenges

Making health a family affair can be a fun and effective approach. Engage the whole family in fitness challenges. Whether it's setting a step count goal or starting a weekly sports competition, these challenges promote physical activity and teamwork.

Set achievable goals and track progress together. This not only motivates everyone to stay active but also adds an element of fun and unity in the household. The more everyone is on board to get healthy, the easier the journey can be!

Meal Planning and Nutrition

A balanced meal plan is a key part of good health. However, busy lifestyles often lead to unhealthy eating habits, like resorting to quick convenience foods. To combat this, meal planning is an effective strategy.

Dedicate one day each week to plan meals, which will ensure that healthy ingredients are on hand and available for quick cooking. For example, preparing a batch of quinoa, bulk cooking your meats or cutting vegetables on Sundays can make weekday meals easy and nutritious. Involving children in this process can be both educational and fun, teaching them about nutrition while fostering a family spirit. For more info on meal planning check out this article.

Practice Mindfulness and Mental Health

Mental health is just as significant as physical health. Amid various demands, stress can build up for moms. Incorporating mindfulness practices into daily routines helps alleviate stress and anxiety.

Consider activities such as deep breathing, meditation, journaling, or reading for pleasure. Dedicating just five to ten minutes daily to these practices can recharge moms mentally and make them feel more centred in their roles.

Build a Support Network

Moms do not have to navigate their journeys alone. Developing a support network is crucial for managing stress and prioritizing health. Connecting with other moms can create an invaluable support system where experiences, tips, and encouragement are freely shared.

For instance, organizing playdates where moms can chat and share health-related tips while the kids play can foster both friendships and wellness. These gatherings can encourage positive lifestyle changes in a supportive environment. Check your EarlyON Centre or the app Peanut for options, I have personally found both helpful during my journey of motherhood.

Learn to Say No

One of the most important lessons for moms is recognizing the value of saying no. Feeling obliged to help others can lead to burnout and negatively impact personal health.

Recognize individual limits and decline additional responsibilities when necessary. Prioritizing time for personal well-being should always come first. Learning to say no can be empowering and beneficial in the long run. You do not need to do everything!

Get Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular health check-ups are essential but can often be overlooked in busy schedules. Keeping up with medical appointments is crucial for monitoring health and preventing issues. This could be your regular doctor, health coach, massages, physiotherapy, or anyone on your health team.

Consider scheduling check-ups as a family activity. This practice not only ensures that everyone remains healthy, but also normalizes health discussions among children, reinforcing the importance of health-conscious behaviours from a young age.

Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle

Amidst the chaos of daily responsibilities, many moms find it challenging to put their health first. However, by creating a structured routine, incorporating exercise, planning nutritious meals, and embracing mindfulness practices, moms can significantly enhance their well-being.

Prioritizing health comes with immense benefits, not only for moms but also for the entire family. By adopting these practices, mothers can reclaim their health while fostering a nurturing environment. Remember, it’s never too late to take charge of your health— start the journey today, and discover fulfilling results for both you and your loved ones.

Enjoying a Nature Walk with my son

If you'd like to learn more about how I could help you reach your goals please email me at kbhealthcoach1@gmail.com or set up a free call by clicking here.