If that title isn’t a contradiction in itself I don’t know what is!
However, now that the girls are home all day with me I wanted to explain some ways in which we are de-stressing and trying to make life a little less full on for all of us. These few simple ways will make sure that no matter whether you spend 2 or 24 hours together, you can be as stress free as possible.
Get enough sleep. See how I didn’t say get 8 hours or 10 hours a night, some people just don’t need that much and I am one of them. However I do know that I will get more sleep if Amelia is in with me from the start. I have co slept with all of the kids and eventually they move into their own rooms so I’m not going to push it with Amelia either. She sleeps all night if she is in my bed yet is up and down like a yo-yo if I try to make her stay in her room. Some things just aren’t worth the battle and being tired for a full day for the sake of sharing my bed is just not worth it!
Yoga. Even just stretches and breathing exercises are enough some days. The girls will stand with me as we inhale and exhale deeply and stretch. I think its the peace and quiet too that calms the mind, Amelia was even questioned at nursery if she did yoga but it really is just bits she has picked up at home (and via Horrid Henry!) lol
One thing I found that helps us all chill out is a warm bath, Amelia is like me though and has it a shade hotter than necessary! There’s nothing like soaking the stresses of the day away and of course putting all the bath toys in there with them certainly helps alleviate some of the bad vibes. Giggling through a torrent of water is good for everyone’s soul and who doesn’t find joy in making potions in a bubble bath!
Most of all Don’t Stress The Small Stuff! Seriously, over the years I have learned which battles are worth fighting and most of the time its easier to talk things through or just let it go! Will it really be the worst thing ever if the kids want a second helping of ice cream, is it really worth yelling if they knock over juice, some thing just need ‘a Taylor Swift reminder’ as my kids say – Shake It Off!!
Do you have any tips for keeping a calm and happy home?
XOXO
Debbie
This is a collaborative post
This sounds like something all parents need to read. I can imagine it often all go go go when you have kids and you just don’t get that time to look after yourself you do when you don’t have them.
I barely have any “dress” to wear due to breastfeeding but I know someday I will definitely need to consider this with my little boy. Bookmarking for reference.
Sleep and a warm bath are great ways to destress. I think when you have kids it’s all about having your own time x
Sleep is the number one for sure. A long hot bath always helps x
Love love this. I’ve just recently started a mindfulness course and it’s been an eye opener. I have found even three minutes of deep breathing helps me stay calm and be able to connect with the boys again . You’ve some great tips here too , love it x
I really want to start yoga again, although I’m not sure I have the focus yet to do it at home. Great tips, you definitely have to do what works for you don’t it? My top tip is to burn aromatherapy oils, that really helps me.
Fantastic post! I’ve started incorporating my little one into my relaxing routine such as watching films and having a pamper session, he loves it and it helps me stay calm haha.
Yoga is such a great tool and activity to destress! I love what it doesn’t to my body and mind after a stressful day!