Managing Stress - Practical Tools for the Busy Mom

Jan 22

Takeaway: Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and seeking support are essential for managing stress as a busy mom.

In today's fast-paced world, managing stress has become essential for maintaining overall well-being. As a therapist, business owner and mom of two little ones, I have encountered various tools and strategies that have helped me and my clients effectively cope with stress. In this blog post, I will share some of these practical approaches that can be easily incorporated into your daily life.

The Power of Boundaries

Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and reducing stress. By clearly defining your work hours and personal time, you can focus on each aspect of your life without feeling overwhelmed. Allocating specific time for work, family, and self-care activities allows you to be present and fully engaged in each area. Remember, it's essential to prioritize self-care and ensure that you have dedicated time for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Embracing Support and Delegating Tasks

Asking for and accepting support is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength. Whether it's seeking help from family members, hiring a virtual assistant, hiring more help in your home or collaborating with professionals in your field, having support can significantly alleviate stress. Delegating tasks that are overwhelming or outside your expertise enables you to focus on what truly matters and reduces the burden of managing everything on your own. It also saves you time, and time is our most valuable asset.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into your routine can have a profound impact on stress reduction. Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided meditations that can help calm the mind and promote relaxation. Taking a few minutes each day to pause, breathe, and connect with the present moment can help you regain clarity and reduce stress. I found that doing only 5-10 mins of meditation, 2-3 days a week has helped me make decisions with intention instead of reaction, gain more insight to what I truly want for myself and become less reactive to my triggers.

I also enjoy journaling 1-2 times per week before bed. I light a candle, get cozy in my bed and grab the journal I keep in my night stand. If you need help finding the right journal for you, check out Promptly Journals.

Lastly, I have recently invested some time into utilizing the power of breath work. Learning how to use your breathe as a way to calm yourself when stressed or anxious can be a game changer. I personally use Moondbird, the world’s first handheld deep breathing coach. It is small enough to put in your purse or keep in your night stand for the the times you need a little guidance on how to calm yourself. My community gets $20 off with code Justine20 at checkout.

Prioritizing Physical Activity

Exercise has long been associated with numerous physical health benefits, but it also plays a crucial role in managing stress. Engaging in regular physical activity, whether it's through a structured workout routine or activities like walking, barre, or strength training, releases endorphins and promotes a sense of well-being. Find activities that you enjoy and make them a priority in your schedule. I personally like to ride my Peloton 3 times per week and I also use the Form App. As a busy mom, I only allocate 30 minutes for my workout and that is all I really need to get my day started before my kids wake up.

Supporting Mental Health Naturally

One supplement that has gained recognition for its potential in alleviating anxiety and stress is Bekome. This supplement is designed to support healthy gut function, as there is a known connection between the gut and mental well-being. Bekome includes ingredients like L-thianine, passion flower, magnesium, and vitamin B6, which have been well-researched by women in the mental health field. Incorporating Bekome into your daily routine may help promote a healthier mind and reduce stress levels. Use code Justine20 to get 20% off your first order!

Seeking Professional Support

Therapy can be a valuable tool for managing stress and enhancing overall mental health. Having a safe space to express yourself, gain insight, and develop coping strategies can make a significant difference in your stress levels. Consider finding a therapist who can provide the support and guidance you need on your journey to managing stress effectively.

Remember, managing stress is a continuous process that requires self-awareness and practice. Experiment with different tools and strategies to find what works best for you. By prioritizing your mental well-being and incorporating these practical approaches into your daily life, you will feel so much better about your parenting, find ways to take care of yourself and flourish in your career.

If you would like to explore more about anxiety and stress management as a busy working mom, check out my program, The Path to Peace. This is an online support program curated for the overachieving, perfectionistic woman who is stuck with trying to do it all.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Justine Carino

Justine is a licensed mental health counselor with a private practice in White Plains, NY. She helps teenagers, young adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict and relationship issues. Justine is also the host of the podcast Thoughts From the Couch.