Now that school is out and the hot summer days are already here, kids tend to sleep a bit longer than usual – especially the older ones. Therefore, you need a good morning routine to keep up during this break.
We use this as an excuse to catch up on an hour of sleep but then rush through the door. For working moms, this means carrying this stressful and frazzled energy with them all day. For stay-at-home moms, it means trying to catch up on running daily errands and responsibilities while having the kids around and no time for themselves; therefore, it’s always wiser to be ahead of schedule.
Here’s why keeping your morning routine in any environment will allow you to set yourself up for success:
Make time to be mindful.
Take your time to wake up, sit up, take ten deep breaths, and name the things you are grateful for.
Delay reaching for your electronic device, and just take 5 minutes to think about your daily priorities.
If you can, avoid having your coffee first thing in the morning; try a glass of water with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
Prepare your wardrobe and a healthy breakfast the night before.
Stay in shape
Early morning is the perfect time to enjoy a good walk still or swim this time of the year. Fitness is great for boosting your health and mental clarity. Checking “Exercise” off your to-do list first thing in the morning creates positive momentum for the rest of the day.
More bonding time with your children
You cannot take care of others unless you take good care of yourself first! Being ahead of your kids’ schedule allows you to find time for yourself and feel fulfilled enough to cater to others’ needs and spend quality time with them. So make time for yourself; the secret to a strong and happy connection with your children is good mental and emotional health first and foremost!
Plan your day
Days spent with kids can get very busy, so planning is key. Take a few minutes to note down the things you need to focus on, on your own and other activities you enjoy doing with your children.
Check what is urgent and what can be postponed. This way, you can talk to your kids about their day, what outings or activities they will do with mom, and what is expected of them when mom is busy. Whether it’s chores, spending a day at a friend’s house, reading, or taking care of younger siblings, kids tend to follow directions better when you let them in on your plans ahead of time.
So set your alarm clock a bit earlier, mamas and put yourself back on your “priority” list!