How to Reduce Stress as a Busy Parent
Being a parent is a tough job and you may find that it’s hard to be pulled in so many different directions. When you’re juggling work, family, and your personal life, it’s inevitable that you’re going to feel some stress every so often.
However, it doesn’t mean you have to live your life stressed out and that your mood has to take a turn for the worse. Instead, find ways to reduce your stress as a busy parent and commit to making these suggestions part of your normal life and routine. You’ll likely soon find that you feel more balanced and in control and less anxious over time.
Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #1 – Ask for Help
The reality is that you don’t have to take on all the work and to-dos yourself as a parent. Avoid assuming all the responsibility and make sure you use your networks and support system best you can. You should get in the habit of reaching out and asking for help when you need it. It may be from your spouse, parents, or neighbours, depending upon the request. Determine who will be the best fit for the role and then speak up and get the help you need. You’ll discover you’re less stressed out and that you have more time in your schedule to take care of your responsibilities that are a top priority.
Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #2 – Set Aside Some “Me” Time
You must make time for yourself and set aside more “me” time when you’re a busy parent if you want to stay well and feel rested. It may be that you wake up early to go for a walk or that you take advantage of the evening hours when your kids go to bed. Find a great series to watch and then schedule time each day to catch up on your shows. You’ll find you’re a lot happier and feel less stress when you put yourself at the top of your to-do list and make time to do what you love and that puts a smile on your face.
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Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #3 – Exercise
Exercising is an excellent way to reduce and manage stress and will help you get into better shape too. Reduce your anxiety and worry as a busy parent by staying physically active. There are many ways to do so such as walking, running, biking, and doing yoga.
Make sure you exercise regularly so that you can feel your best and be full of energy. You’ll likely begin to love the way you look and how your clothes fit and will be motivated to keep exercising each day. Daily exercise is beneficial to your physical well-being as well as your mental health so it’s a great way to boost your health and happiness.
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Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #4 – Get Outside of the House
Sometimes you may feel stressed out as a busy parent because you’re always around the house. This may be especially true if you work from home as well. Therefore, it may help you reduce your stress if you make it a point to get out of the house or spend some time outdoors. It may be that you go shopping for yourself or that you head out to work in the garden. It doesn’t matter what it is as long as you force yourself to go someplace or do an activity that gets you away from your home and out of your normal routine.
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Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #5 – Meditate & Do Some Deep Breathing
You may be stressed out because you have a lot on your mind. In this case, it’ll be useful to do some meditating and deep breathing exercises. You’ll be able to slow your racing thoughts and will soon feel more relaxed. There are many guided meditation apps that you can do right from your phone no matter where you are throughout the day.
Also, do some deep breathing when you’re on the go or at work to relax you and as a way to feel calmer. The best part is that you can take some deep breaths subtly and no one will even know you’re doing them. You’ll likely discover you fall asleep easier and stay asleep better when you meditate daily.
Further Reading: How To Relax After A Long Day At Work
Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #6 – Find A Hobby
You may be stressed out as a busy parent because you feel like all you do is work and take care of your children. Therefore, reduce your stress by finding a hobby you enjoy doing when you have the time. There are many hobbies to choose from so experiment with a few until you find a couple that is the most rewarding for you.
For example, maybe you take up photography, teach yourself how to refurbish furniture, or launch and manage your own blog. Use your hobby as a way to use the other skills you have and get you to step away from your regular responsibilities and tasks.
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Reduce Stress As A Busy Parent #7 – Practise Gratitude
You can also reduce stress as a busy parent by practising gratitude daily. Focus on what’s going right and well in your life and what you’re most thankful for. It’ll help you maintain a positive mindset and you’ll have less room for any negative thoughts that try to creep in.
Keep a journal and write in it and review your blessings regularly to ensure they stay top of mind for you. Gratitude will not only help you reduce your stress but it’ll also boost your happiness and make you feel good. You’ll notice that you focus less on what’s lacking or stressing you out and more on what you do have in your life and what makes you feel alive.
Reflecting On Our Top Tips
It’s not easy being a parent and being busy all the time makes it even more of a challenge. You should be enjoying these days and having fun watching your kids grow up. Therefore, it’s essential you learn ways to reduce and manage your stress so you can enjoy life more. Apply these tips and you’ll be on your way to feeling more relaxed and happy about how the days are unfolding. Start implementing these suggestions so you can experience a positive transformation of the way you live and your attitude as soon as possible.
Photos by Sydney Rae – CCO Licence
PIN: 7 Helpful Ways to Reduce Stress as a Busy Parent
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