Want to Step Up Stressed Moms? You Need to Read This First-Take a Break!
When I had the flu-in retrospect I wonder if I had COVID-in late January of this year, I was febrile and bedbound for ten days. Upon reflection, that time was filled with a feeling of having had a pretty good time. You might be thinking, “What do you mean?” Well, the worst headaches of my life, crippling weakness, and horrible chest pains were accompanied by the privilege of lying around in all day with absolutely no duties. In fact, despite feeling a little stressed about being so sick, I was also incredibly relaxed on another level; I made it through several seasons of the Gilmore Girls on Netflix and enjoyed the comfort of my Serta Sleep Perfect mattress. Once I recovered, I was actually grateful for that time in many ways. I got a break from my job and home responsibilities, which is rare for us mothers.
My illness presented me with the opportunity to “check out” of my life for those ten days. Sometimes, even now, when I get exhausted, I want a reprieve my life for a few days-to take a break or vacation of some sort. Escape feels impossible during this pandemic, but I take my breaks when I can. When family offers to help in small or big ways, I unashamedly accept it. When my son naps, I also nap or watch more Netflix. I deliberately take time for myself and I don’t feel guilty about it.
Motherhood is a full time job from which you cannot call out. A mother from Illinois says: “I can quit a job and never, ever have to see those people or do that thing again. I could divorce my husband and not have to be a wife. I could estrange myself from my parents and siblings. But mothering is something so deep, I cannot change it.” A lot of mothers have mixed feelings about their role. They love it so much, but at times it can feel heavy.
Being a mother is by far the most favorite part of my life. Nothing has been more special than the relationship I have with my child or witnessing his development day by day. Parenting is the toughest, most important work I’ll ever do and that’s a lot of pressure!
In fact, there should be time outs for adults! I often use them to discipline my toddler. Have you ever wanted to take a prolonged time out? The lack of a proper exotic relaxing vacation most certainly magnifies the absence of a break during this though period.
I’ll let you in on what has worked for me during this strange time:
-Finding small pockets of time for myself like savoring my morning cup of coffee. This activity does wonders for me
-Working out regularly.
-Doing something luxurious for myself on a regular basis. For me this is an extra long shower or a caramel macchiato.
-Finding a way to get away for a day or evening at a local Airbnb.
-Never turning down offers for help! This one is huge. Taking breaks from duties when you can is something you should always strive for. This practice helps combat burnout.
Having been in your shoes, I have and continue to devise a way to kick life’s ass and would love to share it with you. Please reach out if you are intrigued.
Hope this article makes you feel less alone.