Tips To Become Stress Free

Thursday, March 27th, 2008

“The Well”: Help For Stressed-Out Moms

On Thursdays we take you to “the well”; your source for inspiration and how-to’s.

Mothers these days have complex roles. They have to balance jobs, bills, errands, their homes, friends, and family… all, of course, in addition to taking care of their own well-being. Taking on all of this can lead to an overwhelming sense of stress and sometimes, even sheer chaos. Staying sane with such a hectic life is a daily struggle.

If you’re a mother who sometimes finds herself on overload, you know that the last thing you want to do is translate your problems to your children. So whether you’re going through a big, life change or just trying to get through a rough day, we’d like to share our top tips for helping all you stressed-out moms stay happy and sane:

1. Take a walk

Getting out in the open air is a great way to take the edge off. Even if you can only mange to walk around the block for ten minutes, do it! The change of scenery will help clear and refresh your mind.

2. Call a friend

Need someone to talk to? Pick up the phone and call a friend. When left to your own thoughts, it’s easy to spin the same things around over and over. A heart-to-heart with a good friend can help put things in perspective and will even put a smile on your face.

3. Pamper yourself

After a hard day, when you’re feeling mentally or emotionally beaten down, it’s OK to take a long bubble bath or relish a chocolate chip cookie. Meditation, massage (even if it’s a quick shoulder rub that you give yourself), breathing exercises, or having 15 minutes of “alone time” can do wonders for your happiness and your peace of mind.

4. Don’t stress about dinner

When you feel like you’re just about to collapse at the end of the day and the thought of cooking a full-on meal seems like the straw that broke the camel’s back, be easy on yourself. It’s easy to whip up a meal that’s delicious and nutritious. Spaghetti, grilled cheese, salads, and leftovers are all quick and easy choices. There are tons of simple, healthy meals that can come together in under 20 minutes.

5. Have some fun!

It’s hard to be stressed and worried when you’re busy having a good time. And a great way to forget about stress is to play with your children. Do something fun that you both enjoy and get into their world. It’s okay to give your problems on hold. And, who knows, maybe your problems will even disappear!

Next time you find yourself on overload, take a break with one of these tips. You’ll be ready to tackle anything!

~Jennifer Rosen

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