When you’re a busy mom, it can be hard to find time for yourself. Between school functions, appointments, sports practice, and work, you are probably exhausted at the end of the day. Yoga is incredibly beneficial, especially when you’re stressed – but how do you fit it into your hectic schedule?
Put together by yogaRiot, which offers yoga teacher training in Portland, Oregon, the following tips can help you find a place for yoga while taking care of the house, your family, and your work.
Take Time for You
While it can be challenging, taking time for yourself is so important. Just half an hour can make you feel better. Take some time away from the kids and the stress of your daily life, pull out your yoga mat and take just a few minutes for yourself.
It may seem like it’s impossible, or that you aren’t doing your job if you take this time. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just a short time away to refocus can make you a better mom by improving your mood and restoring your patience.
Do Yoga With Your Kids
No matter what age your children are, you can incorporate them into your yoga routine. Of course, no one expects a toddler or even a preschooler to go through the complicated yoga moves you might want to practice. If you keep it simple, they can learn over time. Even the few moments you can keep them focused on it can be great for them (and for you).
Plus, it’s a great way to spend time with your kids. They’ll have a ton of fun with it!
Do Yoga When Your Kids are Sleeping
If you have younger kids, they probably take naps during the day. Older kids may sleep in a little longer in the morning or go to bed early to get up for school. While your kids are sleeping, pull out the yoga mat and get to work!
It can be hard to motivate yourself to get up earlier. It can be difficult to find the energy when you’re exhausted with a new baby or active toddler. But even a few minutes of quiet yoga time while the kids are asleep can help you feel more centered overall.
Practice Everywhere
If you work away from home, you might think there’s simply no way to do yoga. You can’t just pull out your mat in the middle of your office, right? However, there are some simple poses you can do even as you’re working. Short breaks to meditate, find your perfect pose, and take a few deep breaths are invaluable.
You can also take your lunch break to practice some simple motions. If there’s enough space for simple exercises in your car, take the opportunity to do some yoga!
Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
As a busy mom, it’s easy to get swept up in the needs of others. The desire to be the perfect mom can leave you feeling like you aren’t enough and taking time for you seems impossible.
You must be kind to yourself. A little time for you is essential. If you are familiar with the mental and physical benefits of yoga, you know that fitting it into your schedule is worth it. Even if it’s just a few minutes (or several small sessions throughout the day), find anyway you can to get your favorite centering poses into your life.
Conclusion
Fitting yoga into your busy life as a mom can be difficult. However, there are many ways that you can fit your exercises in throughout your chaotic days. If you want to connect with other yogis, learn more about yoga, and have fun doing it, join a local studio to take your yoga to the next level.
