As a busy mum of three working from home, I know firsthand how chaotic life can get. Between managing work deadlines, family responsibilities, and the never-ending to-do list, it can feel like there’s no time to pause. That’s where mindfulness has been a game-changer for me. It’s a simple yet powerful way to create moments of calm in the middle of the madness.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the act of bringing your full attention to the present moment. It’s not about trying to empty your mind or achieving perfection; it’s about being fully present in whatever you’re doing—whether it’s savouring a cup of tea, reading with your kids, or even folding laundry. For busy mums, mindfulness can be a lifeline to help navigate the challenges of everyday life.
Practical Ways to Start a Mindfulness Practice
1. Find Mindful Moments in Your Day
You don’t need hours to practice mindfulness; even a few minutes can make a big difference. For me, it might be taking a deep breath while waiting for the kettle to boil or truly focusing on the aroma and warmth of my morning cup of tea. These small moments help me reset and feel more grounded.
2. Use Your Own Tools
Mindfulness doesn’t require fancy gadgets or expensive memberships. Some of my favourite tools include a simple notebook for jotting down thoughts or moments of gratitude and mindfulness apps that offer short, guided practices perfect for a busy schedule. My personal recommendation is I AM, which is a free app on Google Play. Whatever works for you, the key is consistency.
3. Read a Practical Book on Mindfulness
If you’re looking for guidance, I highly recommend Izzy Judd’s Mindfulness for Mums. It’s filled with relatable stories and easy-to-follow techniques that fit seamlessly into a mum’s life. Her practical advice helped me see mindfulness as something I could actually do, even with a full plate.
Benefits of Mindfulness for Mums
Practicing mindfulness has had a ripple effect on my life and my family’s well-being. Here’s what I’ve noticed:
- Reduced Stress: Taking just a few minutes to breathe or center myself helps me handle the day’s challenges with a clearer mind.
- Improved Relationships: When I give my full attention to my kids or my husband, our connections feel stronger and more meaningful.
- Enhanced Well-Being: Mindfulness has improved my sleep, increased my patience, and given me a more positive outlook on life.
Tips for Incorporating Mindfulness into Everyday Life
- Start Small: Begin with just one minute of mindful breathing and build up from there.
- Include Your Children: I often encourage my kids to join me in mindfulness practices, like observing nature during a walk or taking a moment to reflect on what made them happy that day. I have taught my children to stop and ask themselves; what can I see, what can I hear, what can I feel, what can I smell and what can I taste. They love it and say it helps to ground them if they are feeling stressed.
- Practice Gratitude: At the end of each day, I jot down three things I’m grateful for. It’s a simple way to shift my mindset and end the day on a positive note.
- Create a Routine: Consistency is key. For me, mindfulness often happens during my morning cup of tea or in the quiet moments before bed.
Mindfulness for New Mums
Being a new mum comes with its own unique set of challenges. When my children were babies, I found mindfulness particularly helpful during feeding times or when rocking them to sleep. Focusing on their gentle breaths or the feel of their tiny fingers in mine brought me a sense of calm and connection.
Final Thoughts
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be another item on your already busy to-do list. It’s about weaving small, mindful moments into your everyday life. Whether it’s using your own tools, finding inspiration in a practical book like Izzy Judd’s, or simply pausing to breathe, these practices can transform how you navigate the chaos of motherhood. Remember, mindfulness isn’t about doing it perfectly; it’s about showing up for yourself and your family in the present moment. Start small and see how it can make a difference for you.