Parenting can feel like an extreme sport these days. The schedules, expectations, and emotional highs and lows of modern parenthood can leave parents feeling like they’ve been put through the wringer at the end of the day. Contrary to popular belief, pushing yourself past your limit on a daily basis is not the way to keep up. Modern parents need to prioritize their physical and mental health. Learning how to manage stress is at the heart of being a healthy, relaxed parent. Of course, any parent spinning plates at the moment knows that’s easier said than done! Learn some “cheats” for finding your peace with these seven ways to reduce your stress levels as a parent.
1. Create a Ritual for Leaving Stress at the Door
For many parents, the big stress point of the day is the transition that happens when we walk through the door after a long day at work. Separating work life and home life is essential for parents. Creating a ritual that allows you to “drop the stress” before you get home can help you to show up for your kids without the day’s baggage. If you have a long commute, consider creating a ritual of calling a friend or family member to vent about your day before you get home. You can also consider spending the commute listening to relaxing music. Finally, consider adding a physical spot in your home where you “drop off” stress. For example, you can place a bucket near the door where you drop your keys after getting home which serves as a reminder to also drop your mental load.
2. Join a Book Club
While adding one more commitment to your plate may seem like the last thing you would want to do, there’s value in making social connections that aren’t linked to your kids or your work. A book club allows you to engage in mental stimulation and social connection simply for the enjoyment of it! You get to explore thoughts and ideas outside of the context of parenthood or your professional life. In other words, it’s time for you to simply exist as you!
3. Embrace Wellness Aids
Is there value in having one of the “CBD gummies nights” you’ve heard other parents talk about? Many adults are utilizing the stress-reducing benefits of CBD. In studies, CBD has been shown to ease anxiety and stress without the risks that can come with THC. From edibles to tinctures, CBD products can be used in daily life to help you enter a more relaxed state of mind while tackling all of the things that go along with being a busy parent. Parents can even enjoy the soothing relaxation that comes from topical CBD products. There’s no need to be wary of CBD. Just make sure you’re purchasing from a high-quality CBD company.
4. Do Things You Enjoy With Your Kids
It’s easy for parenting to feel like a chore. Change that up by doing things you find fun with your kids. Why not learn yoga together, get into pickleball, or try painting? As your stress levels go down, your kids will love seeing this side of you!
5. Prioritize Daily Exercise
Daily exercise makes us more resilient against stress. As a parent, taking time for walks or workouts is an empowering way to reclaim some of your time. It also sets a great example for your kids!
6. Do Nightly Journaling
Just one month of consistent journaling has been linked with decreased mental distress and increased well-being. Start ending your evenings with journal entries. In addition to helping you unload feelings, journaling can also help you to begin to see patterns.
7. Give Yourself Permission to Drop Things
Do an honest assessment of your family’s schedule. Many parents add stress to their lives by packing their schedules with activities they think are important. During some seasons, it’s okay to admit that your family doesn’t have time for all of the sports, volunteering, and other extra activities that have you frantically running around.
