As the New Year approaches, many of us begin to look at our lives and think about the things that we would like to improve over the next year – aka, our “New Year’s Resolutions.” From exercising more, to eating less, our “goals” often revolve around our weight and how we would like to weigh less, be more toned, etc.
Unfortunately, by February many of these resolutions turn more into a dream as our motivation begins to slide and our good – but often unrealistic – intentions take the back burner to everything else we have going on in our lives.
Especially as a mom, doing anything for yourself, let alone something as time-consuming as exercising can be, is really tough. And while it is supposed to make us feel better about ourselves, will often leave us feeling like we are “bad parents”, neglecting our children for our own selfish desires.
Add to that the fact that we aren’t getting the results we want as quickly as we were hoping for, and our exercising and fitness goals get pushed to the back of our to-do lists until January of the next year rolls around and we start back at square one.
[It doesn’t have to be so hard though! Here’s some recommended reading on the issue.]
However, what is hard for many of us to realize is that taking time for ourselves actually enables us to be better parents and focus more of our time and energy on our children when we are with them. From the obvious external benefits of being more physically fit and able to keep up with their active lifestyles, to the [internal] mental wellness and clarity that exercise brings, we become better parents (and people) all-round.
So remember, when things get stressful and your days seem extra long, slow down and take some time for you. Your body (and your kids) will thank you!
And stay tuned for our next blog about simple ways to “sneak-in” exercise throughout your day.
