You know it’s coming…the dreaded evening routine when it’s time to make dinner, clean up dinner, give baths, do homework, read books, say prayers, pick up the house, tend to your husband and all of a sudden you look up at the clock and already 10pm. You have done nothing that you wanted to do and feel like you have accomplished nothing for you. You are so exhausted from working all day or taking care of the kids all day and you just want a break but now it’s time to shower and go to bed.
Here are 10 tips for exhausted moms that will hopefully help you make it through the dreaded evening routine and other parts of your day! We have all heard the “if Mom is not good then no one is good” saying so we have to take of ourselves! : ) Forget Stella….Mom needs to get her groove back!
Tip 1- Drink lots of water and then some more! People reach for coffee or soda thinking this will perk them but actually this is counterproductive! Water will rehydrate your body and keep your muscles working and keep you more alert! Plus it does wonders for your skin!
Tip 2- Have a social life! Moms need friends to talk to, vent to and share the good bad and ugly with! Studies show that people with friends and who stay active are happier so it is imperative that you make time even if it is once a month to get out with the ladies—that means no kids and no husband! Everything is more fun with a friend!
Tip 3- Go to bed on time and/or early! This is a hard one for me as sometimes once I finally get everyone to sleep this is the only time I have to myself or to get things done but our bodies need time to rest and wind down! Plus it is a chance to cuddle and visit with your Husband before he drifts off to sleep. Having a routine, not just for your kids, is a good idea for Mom as well to stay sane and healthy!
Tip 4- Eat Right! I know it sounds clique but junk in is junk out! We need to treat our bodies like the temples they are! Remove sugar and caffeine from your diet where possible and insert fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Take a good woman’s multivitamin also. Drink yummy homemade smoothies loaded with Antioxidants. Remember we don’t want our kids to see us popping Twinkies into our face daily now do we????
Tip 5- Take a power nap– We all need an energy boost from time to time! If you are lucky enough to have kids that still nap then nap with them. If your kids are at school, nap. If you work full time even if you can get a power nap on your lunch break it can make a huge difference in your mood.
Tip 6- Exercise- A great chance to have some alone time or even socialize with other Moms. We need to take care of our bodies and this goes along with eating right. Even if you are so tired, get out and take a walk. Exercise improves your overall health and mood! Find a short workout video on YouTube or even go play with the little monsters and get them tired!
Tip 7- Calgon take me away. Take a bath. Bubbles and candles are always a nice touch. It is hard to find time in my house to do this but I try every chance I get. If my kids know I am taking a bath, they want to jump in so many times I just lock the door and tell my husband that Mommy needs 20 minutes. A bath makes me feel like a new “me.” I always feel rested and ready to go after I take one and sometimes even have a chance to catch up on my latest issue of People Magazine.
Tip 8 Ask for Help– Never a sign of weakness but of strength! Everyone needs help and no one can do it all. It takes a village nowadays so ask your friends, husband, children, parents etc for help. If you need to hire a cleaning lady for awhile or longer, do it. When I was pregnant with my 2nd baby, I did just that because I was having back problems. That was 4 years ago and she still comes monthly to help me out! Let your various village helpers empty the dishwasher, walk the dog, take out the trash etc. so that you can rest for a minute.
Tip 9- The power of positive thinking! Adjust your thinking and thought process! Have a positive outlook and attitude no matter what. Even when you are tired and down! Remember your kids are watching and you are leading by example! I have found “fake it till you make it” really works! Tell yourself this is going to be a “Good Day” and make it happen to matter what!
Tip 10- Do Life and all of this in Christ’s Strength– We saved the best and most important for last. You cannot do this alone like I talked about in tip #8. Don’t convince yourself that “I” can do this but learn to lean and rely on our heavenly father to walk you through this life and Motherhood. Pray daily over your kids and with your kids, place bible verses around your house, and sing praises. We cannot do this alone and why would we ever want to?? Here is a link to some special bible verses from sites we love that you can pray with your children and for yourself to prayer for strength and protection for your family. You will be amazed in the power of prayer and God’s grace in your daily life if you lean on him.
Great Mom Resources to check out!!!
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Excellent tips. I especially think that the drinking water and exercise tips are very beneficial. It is amazing what even a 10 minute walk can do. (Or put on some favorite music and dance!)
Amanda recently posted…Easy Gluten Free Brownies {Dairy Free}
Yes, I try to walk daily!
Going to bed early or on time is definitely a struggle for me. Nights are the only time I have to blog lately. It’s my work time. Hopefully I can change that soon!
I know what you mean! : )
I’m a HUGE believer in drinking plenty of water to solve a lot of problems. That being said, I still gotta have my hot shower to decompress! Nice list!
So many great tips! It’s so easy to get overwhelmed and feel exhausted but I always try to make time for myself to relax and recharge! Taking a bath is always my go-to 🙂
Thanks Erin! Yes, we love Baths at my house too!!!