As a mom, you’ve probably got a lot on your plate. Even if your days are quite relaxed you might be dealing with sleep deprivation that seems to have no end in sight. Or you might be expending tons of mental energy with your enthusiastic toddler, who leaves you feeling exhausted.
Chronic tiredness probably isn’t something that you’re going to be able to improve quickly as there are likely to be a number of variables that will need time and care. However, there are some simple ways that you can give yourself an energy boost that will nourish your body and should help you tackle the rest of your day with enthusiasm.
If you’re a tired mum, try these simple tips:
Mind your food choices
It can be so tempting to make poor food choices if you’re a tired mum. Sugar, salt and fat will likely be crying out to you and trying to entice you with a ‘feel better quick fix’. Although the cravings will feel very real, try and aim for some natural energy-boosting snacks which will be less likely to cause you to crash back down later.
Fresh fruit, berries, nuts, seeds, boiled eggs, natural yogurt, vegetable sticks with hummus, and smoothies are a few ideas for healthy whole food snacks. You could also have some dark chocolate for a good energy boost that can help you to feel good without excessive sugar. Try to select food combinations that contain carbohydrates, as well as protein and fat.
Eat regularly
Don’t let yourself get hungry. Be prepared to have snacks on hand. An empty growling stomach won’t do much to help you keep your energy levels up.
Is it thirst?
Hydration levels have a very strong correlation with energy levels, whether you’re a tired mum or not! How much water have you been drinking? Sometimes simply having a glass or two of water can give you an energy boost. Make sure you’re extra focused on your hydration levels if you’re experiencing a low energy day.
Get into nature
Getting outside for some fresh air can make you feel better mentally, and also rejuvenate you physically. If you can take it a step further and head to the beach, park or a nature area you may notice even more profound effects on your energy levels.
Move your body
If you’re a tired mum, you might not feel like moving your body. And if you’re chronically tired it may not be a good idea to do anything too intense because it can end up weakening your body further. However, what could be very beneficial is getting out for a quick walk around the block, doing a set of squats or another appropriate exercise, or maybe putting on your favourite song for a boogie. Get the blood pumping and adrenalin flowing for a healthy version of a ‘feel better quick’ fix for a tired mum!
Rest and relax
Ok, so you might think that this is asking the impossible if you’re a tired mum with a pre-schooler or two in tow! See if you can manage to sit down and take a few deep breaths, or have a cup of tea. Slow down and leave the housework till later, or simply lie down on the bed for five minutes.
Get out of the house and do something fun!
Sometimes you might end up feeling more tired if you’re sitting or lying around the house. If your energy levels aren’t going up from having time at home, then think about getting away. Do something different and fun for the day. Take the kids somewhere you haven’t been before. The new surroundings will be a fresh take on your day and you may just find the day passes a whole lot faster!
Prioritize sleep
This might be easier said than done. However, if you’ve had a low energy day, it’s probably one of the best things you can do. Take a night off working, housework, sitting in front of the TV, or whatever else you would normally spend your evening doing. Go to bed as soon as your kids have so you’ve got the best chance of waking up and feeling great the next day.
Summary
If you don’t take care of you, you won’t be able to take care of others! We are always going to have those days where we just can’t seem to shake it, but in general, focusing on these tips should help you have less of those days and more filled with good energy!
XO
B