5 free things moms can do to de-stress this winter

As mamas, we know that finding time throughout the day for ourselves can be slim to none. Between the cleaning, work, kid activities, and finding time for your spouse, time seems to just pass by and before you know it, it is 9 PM on a Sunday and you feel the opposite of refreshed.

Does anyone else feel this way? 

During the winter season, it makes it even more difficult to get outside and be productive. Why? Because it is cold and cloudy the majority of the time and curling up next to the fireplace or in your bed sounds so much better than getting dressed to go out in the cold. 

This winter I want to give you some easy ways you can de-stress and find time for yourself that doesn't allow you to get dressed or even leave your home. Some of these may even be something you can enjoy with your family. 

 De-Stress Ideas you can do at home:

1. Stretch while your kids are in the bath

when my kids are in the bath I used to just scroll my phone, or sit around waiting for them to be done. Now I use the time in the bathroom as ME TIME. I put on all of the nice moisturizers I"m supposed to use (but never have time to), use my sink as a balance bar, and stretch it out.

2. Use a bath bomb...but a fun one

Additionally, when the kids are done in the bath, Kent and I have started the habit of switching places. He puts the kids in PJS and puts Beau down while I hop in the shower or tub.

This small change has been the single best move for my hygiene I have made in a long time ;).

Earlier this month when we were beginning our Covid quarantine I splurged and bought these CBD bath salts (linked a trial size so you can see if you like them). I highly recommend!

3. Put your phone on do not disturb

I, like most of us, WFH which is wonderful but rarely allows me to shut off. I have started the practice of leaving my laptop down int he basement where I train and putting my phone on do not disturb after 8 PM. While this really cuts into my BS internet surfing post bedtime (a time I really enjoy) its also helped me disconnect from work at night...which in turn really helps my sleep.

4. Practice diaphragmatic breathing

Diaphragmatic Breathing is great for a lot of physical reasons - but it can also help you calm down and relieve stress.Dr. Alexandra DiGrado of Boston Pelvic PT recently posted a great video on it HERE

5. Listen to podcasts

I'm super shitty at meditation. I'll be the first to say it. Instead- walking and listening to podcasts is my source of relaxation. I cherish that time alone. 

Here are a few of my favorites from the past week:

The Blonde Files (love the tips on benefits of steps)

Chasing Life With Sanjay Gupta - The Science of Grit (Love this concept)

The Motherly Podcast - The Ways our Brains Change after Giving Birth

MomGoals The Podcast - Intro Episode