The fall can be a wonderful time of year with the crisp air finally cooling things down and much anticipated change arrives. It is also a time to get back to routines and new schedules especially if you’re a busy mom. Seasons of change and extra load on our lives is exactly the time we need to turn to prioritizing health and self-care.
You’ve heard the phrase, can’t pour from an empty cup? I can bet that after the summer, your cup is nearing empty or maybe parched? Gently return to some healthful habits that optimize your energy and focus so you can feel your best juggling it all. Start with the simple steps below.
Establish Intentional Routines
Whether consciously or not, we all follow routines. However, when routines are developed reactively rather than intentionally, they can become sources of frustration and not align with your goals.
Take a moment to evaluate your daily habits. For example, if the morning rush to get the kids ready feels chaotic and stressful, consider how you can streamline the process.
Start by working backward from the time you need to leave the house, and list all necessary tasks. With a clear plan in place, you can develop a routine that supports your objective of making mornings more manageable. By making a few thoughtful adjustments, such as making lunches the night before or prepping breakfasts, you can create a smoother, more efficient start to your day.
Focus on Nutrition
Busy moms often skip meals or make less nutritious choices due to the pressures of caregiving and busy schedules. Over time, under-eating can lead to nutritional deficiencies and other health issues, as it places undue stress on the body.
Meal planning can be one of the most effective ways to support your well-being when you’re busy. Whether it’s preparing meals for the week, planning a few days in advance, or bulk cooking, thinking ahead is a game-changer. It alleviates stress during dinner times and helps maintain healthy eating habits despite the demands of the school year.
For additional support during busy seasons, I often recommend Provenance to my clients. I love their anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense meals to ensure that your nutritional needs are met, providing balance and energy as you adjust to new routines.
Recognize That Your Needs Are Important
During this time of year, it’s easy to prioritize everyone else’s needs over your own. However, it’s crucial to remember that your needs are equally important. I find that many moms are not fully aware of what their needs even are. If that’s you, then the first step is to reflect on what it is that you need to feel your best. Identify the habits that can support you becoming your healthiest self. It could be that you drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up, or take a walk outside every morning after kid drop-off. Remember that neglecting your own well-being will inevitably lead to burnout which doesn’t benefit anyone.
By addressing your needs and incorporating self-care into your routine, you’ll be better equipped to manage the demands of the season while maintaining balance in your life.
Esther Ban is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach who specializes in helping driven women with full plates overcome stress and burnout so that they can have the energy and vibrancy needed to chase after their big dreams. Esther is a mom and lives in Westchester, NY with her husband, two boys. She can be found at estherkban.com and on Instagram @esther_ban.