Parent and Baby

Parenting is a full job and you are expected to be on top of things 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.. However, as member of the human race, you do have your limitations. Even the best machines conk out due to heavy usage. Because a number of people rely on you, it is imperative that you keep yourself well-oiled and in tip top shape.

Change in appetite, difficulty in concentration, mood swings, lethargy and general irritability are some signs that may lead to “parenting burnout”. Remember that your well-being is of the utmost importance because this will be reflected on your children. Allowing yourself to relax and smell the roses is not a selfish act.

There are a number of ways to catch up on much needed rest. First thing is to realize that it is necessary for you to do so. The demands of your family and work should sometimes take the back seat. Otherwise, you might end up drowning in exhaustion, irritability, stress intolerance and concentration and memory problems. All these may result in a number of other health related problems that you don’t want. Take advantage of the time when your children are resting and rest as well. Secure the help of your nanny or other family members in taking care of your kids for a few minutes so that you can have an uninterrupted shuteye. Use ear plugs if necessary to drown out the noise.

Some call this “constructive daydreaming”. These momentary trips can give you the jumpstart that you need. Your state of mind affects your body, thus these “vacations” can be quite restful. Close your eyes and picture the place that you wish to be in. Read up on this dream location so that you can picture a detailed setting. The trick is to engage all your senses with your imagination. Visualize sipping that fine red wine or soaking in the warm colors of the Mediterranean. This can be done during coffee breaks or during the nights you can’t sleep. The more practice you have, the more pleasurable it gets. Take mental snapshots of the places you have visited so that you can go back to it again and again. This is your happy place after all.

Seclusion is necessary once in a while. It can be spent reading a book, writing down your thoughts, painting masterpieces, listening to music or even taking solitary walks. Consider these moments as dates with yourself. This provides introspection and relaxation. It always pays to be in touch with your inner self. Relax and take a pause.

Coffee, movie, a round of drinks or just inane banter with friends is a welcome break from your daily routine. More importantly, when you feel like exploding, time with your best friends may just be the kick you need. Once in a while when you need an outlet.

Avoiding exercise because you feel tired is a common excuse. On the contrary, working-out recharges your batteries. It beats exhaustion because the physical routine floods the body with endorphins that creates mush needed energy. So take that power walk, get on a treadmill or dance you fatigue away. Not only will it put that zip in your day, it will also reap healthy rewards for your body.

Once ion a while you can give yourself a little bit of credit. Rewarding one’s self is a must. it can be a day in the spa, a trip to the driving range, a new pair of jeans, a lone coveted jacket or a gastronomical experience. These pampering or small treats are quite encouraging and can be very inspiring. You deserve these because you are doing a good job. If you are not convinced, just look at your children.

Nothing beats stress better than having a spouse who is ever willing to be a sounding board. The security that you have a partner to face the day ahead, trials and tribulation notwithstanding, is more than enough ammunition. Of course what follows is reinforcement. Intimacy, especially if it’s hot and steamy, forges you to charge ahead.