Mothers!
Mothers, am I right? We all have one. And while many of us enjoy the relationship we have with our own mothers, just as many of us, even as adults, continue to experience tense moments with mom.
How can you create your own identity as a mother, but still learn from and practice the best parts of the parenting you received? Where are you on the balance beam? Are you a replica of your own mother, falling into the same patterns as a mother that you experienced as a child? Or are you blazing new trails and trying new tactics? Most importantly, do you feel you are being the best mother you could be?
Mothering is hard work, physically and emotionally. It can take a toll on our other relationships, and also on our self-esteem. Perhaps you chose to stay home with your baby, but now you’re feeling restless and are left wondering if you’re a bad mom for not enjoying this amazing experience. Or perhaps you went back to work soon after giving birth and are now trying to juggle mommy-life with your career. Here are a few tips to help you find that healthy balance:
REFLECT
Find time each day to remember the positive parts of parenting.
PEACE OUT
Find a place to take a few moments of quiet time. One client made a space in her closet and another hides in her bathroom.
BREATHE
Take in deep, slow, controlled breaths.
BE MINDFUL
Consciously take in the beauty around you.
SELF-SOOTHE
Find or create a small water element in your yard or patio. This can do wonders to calm your spirit.
Robin Maier is a licensed clinical social worker who uses a gentle therapeutic approach to guide women in every stage of life toward greater happiness
