Tips to Add Some Mindfulness into Your Motherhood

We recently recorded an episode about Mindfulness in Motherhood and wrote a blog post that outlines the two main tools that can be used to increase your mindfulness - meditation and affirmations. But what are some actionable tips you can implement right now?

Here are some ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life as a mama bear:

1. Take a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breath. This simple practice can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, and help you cultivate a sense of calm and centeredness.

2. Practice mindful parenting by focusing on the present moment with your kid When you are playing with them or helping them with homework, try to be fully present and engaged in the moment, rather than letting your mind wander to other tasks or distractions. We know this is especially hard when it feels like your todo list is one million items long.

3. Practice self-compassion and self-care by taking time for yourself each day. Self-care is not selfish. Whether it's a quick walk outside or a longer yoga class, taking time to care for yourself can help you stay grounded and less cranky when you do spend time with your kids.

4. Start each day with a positive affirmation. Choose a statement that resonates with you, such as "I am a loving and capable mother" or "I trust my instincts as a parent," and repeat it to yourself several times throughout the day.

5. Create a vision board or affirmation board that includes images and words that inspire you and remind you of your goals and values as a mother and beyond. Place it in a prominent location in your home, such as your bedroom or kitchen, and take time each day to reflect on it. If hanging it as part of decor or DIY scrapbooks is not your thing try making your vision board on Pinterest. Just remember to revisit and reflect on it often.

6. Use affirmations to reframe negative self-talk and limiting beliefs. When you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, such as "I'm a terrible mother," try to reframe them into positive affirmations, such as "I am doing the best I can and that is enough." Be careful not to let this veer into toxic positivity territory though. You can still feel your feels and use affirmations as a tool to keep you from sticking to a negative mindset for too long.

7. Last but not least, a damn good therapist. :)