This time of year, we can all start to feel very rushed. Kids are going back to school, traffic is worse than ever, and there are a million things on our plate to organize and navigate through. Stress can creep into our daily lives very easily, and before we know it, we feel so run down by the daily grind that we’ve lost our motivation.

Intervening before we reach this point is essential!

 

 “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” ~Anne Lamott

 

Stress adds up, even if you don’t notice, or if it doesn’t feel like “a lot” at first. Taking care of yourself is a daily practice that you may not think you have time for, but making room for you is the most important thing you can do for yourself and those around you.

Picture this: It’s a busy morning at your house. You’re running 10 minutes behind and the kids are barely dressed and have to scarf down pop tarts for breakfast before the school bus arrives because you didn’t have time for breakfast. In the back of your mind, you’re thinking of that deadline for work— and how you’re going to get fully dressed and out the door in the next 15 minutes. And it’s only Tuesday. 3 more days of this after today— and let’s not forget about the after school activities.

Even if your kids are grown, or child rearing is not part of your routine, things can still feel exhausting day in and day out, so taking a moment is maybe the only thing you can do!

 

“Loving yourself isn’t vanity. It’s sanity.”~ Katrina Mayer

 

It may be as simple as an extra 30 seconds to take a deep breath and tell yourself that you’re capable, strong, and fierce enough to conquer the day. Little moments of positivity can be just what you need when you’re having a hard time—they make a huge difference if you’re battling depression or are beat down by the demands of everyday tasks. So, what does this look like on a busy schedule?

Here’s some tips to help you Take Back Your Power and squeeze in some self-care on a busy schedule:

  • Morning meditation— even for a few seconds or minutes in the morning, before getting out of bed, take a moment to draw in some breaths and get your mind ready for the demands of the day. If you have time, make yourself some coffee, and practice some positive self-talk: “I am fierce and I will tackle anything life throws my way today.” It sounds silly, but it does work if you believe what you’re telling yourself!
  • Schedule some Me time—If you don’t have time for self-care activities, block time out on your calendar. Schedule it. It really is a priority. If you don’t make time for your physical and mental health now, you’ll be forced to do so later, maybe when it isn’t as convenient. Better to schedule it now!
  • Get moving— outside, if possible. Even if it’s a brisk walk to the mailbox, take a moment and appreciate the fresh air on your face. Sometimes even adding your kids to your “workout” can make it fun, and your kids will love it too!
  • Involve more music into your routines— Make playlists for different parts of your day, or different parts of the week. Upbeat tunes for your drive to work can help you mentally prepare for the day. Calming music for some deep breathing or on your drive home can help you unwind in a healthy way. Fast-paced music for workouts can help you feel more motivated. Music can be powerful!

 

 “Self-care means giving yourself permission to pause.”~ Cecilia Tran

 

Taking a moment looks different for everyone, especially on a busy schedule.. But it’s important that you find what works for you. Treasure the little moments in the day and use them to ensure your success! There may be 3 more days until the weekend, but you are fierce, and you will conquer anything life throws your way today. Take your moments when you find them, collect yourself, and Take Back Your Power!