When seeking a moment of calm, a space to breathe, it can be hard to know what that looks like and if it would even help.
Survival mode is what we go into as new mums. I enjoyed reflecting back on blogs I wrote that aimed to highlight how you can find those spaces.
If you’re enjoying these blog round up series, don’t forget to also check out:
Blog Roundup: well-being tips from one mum to another
Blog Roundup: 6 essential things you should know about self-care
Blog Roundup: 5 tips on the never-ending quest for sleep
Let’s dive into this one!
1. Making yoga a part of your routine
I’m a yoga enthusiast. It’s my way of slowing down, feeling powerful in my body and also getting incredible stretches when I feel stressed or uptight. I’ve written a fair amount on yoga on this blog because it’s truly transformed my life. If you’re looking for space to breathe, to connect with yourself, then yoga could be a good fit.
Read more Why practising yoga is great for you and your growing bump
2. Pause. Breathe. And Move
When it comes to looking after ourselves, we can often think of the extreme activities we need to throw ourselves into or the most expensive things. Whether that’s joining a gym, a pilates class or a bootcamp. These ideas became blockers for me actually doing the most simplest of things to find my space to breathe. It doesn’t have to cost a thing.
Read more First pause. Next breathe. Now move.
3. Getting outdoors
It’s so invigorating to get outdoors, not only for our physical wellbeing but our mental wellbeing too. The outdoors became my best friend during lockdown and even more closer during maternity leave. An opportunity to decompress, to lull my daughter to sleep and to connect with other mums.
Read more about the benefits 5 reasons why mums need to get outdoors
4. What about your mental space?
There’s the physical spaces to breathe – whether that’s getting outdoors, finding your way to your yoga mat or doing some mindfulness – but what about your mental space where you don’t leave where you are at all.
That’s where journalling can be a very powerful exercise. Journalling allows you to decompress, alleviate any stress while visioning what you want your future to be.
Read more about the art of journalling How to start a manifestation journal [Interview]
5. Get into your zone
That flow state. I love that flow state. I often find that happens when I’m creating something, like now when I’m blogging. However, it could be when you’re super relaxed that you fall asleep and wake up revitalised, and refreshed. Maybe it’s when you’re listening to music or deep in conversation, time just passes and you lose track.
Read more You are worth the quiet time as a mum
What else helps you find that space to breathe?