Are You a Tired Mom? Even Superheroes Need Help … Here’s What to Do

Are you a mother? Then the following scenario probably sounds way too familiar. You run around all day (and then some), cleaning messes that seem to instantly reappear. There are chores, errands, meals, and high-energy kids to deal with. Then there are the multiple take-them-there, drive-them-here, don’t-be-late-for-anything responsibilities that having children entails.

Forget about having time to consider your own mental or emotional states, because your children’s welfare is #1, #2, and # 3 through #10 on your top 10 most important concerns.

Moms are superheroes in our midst, and many are rightfully exhausted. By the way, did you know 71.5% of moms with kids under 18 work part-time or full-time jobs (Bureau of Labor Statistics in the US)? In another piece of research, the Welch’s juice and jam company conducted a poll that reveals being a mom with a kid or kids 5 to 12 years old is the equivalent of working 2.5 full-time jobs. Welch’s discovered the work a mom does takes 98 hours each week – 14 hours each and every day.

I respect you and feel your struggle, mama. I feel it because I know it as a busy mom of two young girls myself. This is why I’ve got your back, Supermom. Here are some tips and practices that can give you sustained energy to help you get through the day.

Have Protein for Breakfast Every Day

Protein is needed by every cell in your body and it is a premier energy source for humans. There are dozens (if not hundreds) of studies that show people who eat protein at breakfast have more energy throughout the day. As well, if you eat protein for breakfast, you are more likely to have restful sleep at night. Get your kids involved in eating protein for breakfast too, because this is a known health-booster for both mind and body.

Trade in the Energy Drinks and Sugar-Filled Coffee

Sure, the caffeine in coffee can give you a natural energy boost, but you actually set up your energy levels for later failure when you fill that coffee with dairy milk, cream, and sugar. You can probably remember at least one time you lost your temper with your children when too much sugar-filled coffee might have been the true culprit.

Try having a cup of coffee, or a glass of green or black tea, without all the extras. If you like a bit of sweetness in your beverage, use organic Stevia or a small amount of raw, organic honey.

Get Physically Active

OK, I know you’re constantly running around and being active with your kiddos. Even so, a lot of mom activities have you sitting down, lying down, or otherwise expending little cardiovascular energy.

I know it can be tough to find some personal time to move your body. When strapped for alone time, exercise with your children! This can be taking a brisk walk or jog with your kids, or play sports with them instead of letting them stare into their tablets and smartphones 24/7. Studies show that just 150 minutes of moderately intense to intense physical activity each week can quickly get you on the road to maximum health and wellness. This also creates natural energy and promotes healthy sleep patterns, for both you and your family.

Stop Trying for Perfection

One thing I’ve learned as a mama is that perfection doesn’t exist. The more you aim for perfection when raising your kids, the more stress you create for yourself and for them. Too much stress lowers the level of “feel-good” chemicals in your body and cranks up harmful levels of “feel bad” chemicals like cortisol.

Good enough is good enough. Does it really matter that you didn’t perfectly cut that peanut butter and jelly sandwich into symmetrical triangles? Stop freaking out about the little things and you will immediately lighten your load.

Socialize with Adults

I know your kids are awesome, but you need some adult time. Try to make this time well spent with people that know and love you. Bring along your kids if you must, but try to find some time for just you and people your age. Set aside at least one day or night each month, or every couple of weeks, to have a social life going out with the ladies. This means no husband, no kids, and no excuses for not making this happen!

Drink Water

Water is a natural detoxing agent, as it removes toxins and chemicals from your body that are sapping your energy. In addition, if you drink water throughout the day, you may find you eat fewer calories, which helps you regulate a healthy body weight over time. Drinking water also makes your skin and hair healthier and younger-looking while hydrating your muscles so you have plenty of energy.

What do you think, supermamas? Are you open to giving these practices a try to see if your energy levels receive a boost? Have you tried any of them already and noticed a difference in the way you feel through the day? Let me know what works for you!

I know as a mother myself that there have been days it feels impossible to even take a few deep breaths. If you’ve been there, try my 60 Second Stress Buster Meditation Technique by clicking here to help you manage stress and anxiety. I promise, it works!

Wishing you well,

Dr. Jessica