Working mothers often find it challenging to juggle work and family responsibilities while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But with a bit of organization and discipline, it is possible to adopt some healthy habits that will help keep you on track. Here are ten practices you should try to adapt to stay healthy as a working mom!
Habit #1: Eat healthy foods
You should practice what you preach and include healthy foods in your diet like you teach your kids about healthy eating habits. This means loading up on fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains.
Also, try to avoid eating processed foods and empty calories. You’ll give your body the nutrients to function correctly and reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases.
Habit #2: Exercise regularly
It’s no secret that exercise is good for you. It’s one of the best things you can do for your health. But when you’re a working mom, finding time to fit in a workout can be tricky. That’s why it’s important to find exercises that you can do quickly, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or bodyweight exercises.
Habit #3: Get enough sleep
As a working mom, getting enough sleep is a challenge in itself. But it’s important to make sleep a priority, especially if you want to stay healthy. Most experts recommend getting at least seven hours of sleep per night.
If you find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, try implementing some bedtime rituals, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and avoiding screens in the hours leading up to bed.
Habit #4: Drink plenty of water
Water is essential for life, and it’s no different for working moms. Make sure to drink plenty of water each day, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Dehydration can lead to many health problems, such as headaches, fatigue, and constipation.
Habit #5: Avoid stress as much as possible
Stress can take a toll on your health, both physically and emotionally. When you’re a working mom, it’s virtually impossible to avoid stress altogether. But you can take steps to minimize its adverse effects so it won’t affect your health.
Reducing stress includes practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, journaling, and spending time with loved ones. If you have back pain and can no longer solve it through massage or pain medication, consider going to a chiropractic clinic to relieve your stress and tension headaches.
Habit #6: Take breaks throughout the day
Working moms are often guilty of working non-stop all day long. But this can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. That’s why it’s essential to take breaks throughout the day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. During your breaks, you can relax with a cup of tea, take a walk outside, or just catch your breath.
Habit #7: Make time for yourself each week
As a working mom, it’s essential to make time for yourself each week. This can be time for you to relax and do something that you enjoy, such as reading a book, walking, or spending time with friends and family. The point is to get some quality me-time so you can recharge and be more productive during the week.
It’s also good to schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, dentist, and optometrist to stay on top of your health. After all, taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your kids. So, make sure that you’re making time for self-care.
Habit #8: Manage your time effectively
As a working mom, it’s essential to learn how to manage your time wisely. This means setting priorities and dividing your time between work and family responsibilities. It also means learning to say no to unnecessary tasks and commitments because you simply don’t have the time.
Habit #9: Connect with other working mothers
One of the best ways to stay healthy as a working mom is to connect with other working mothers. You can join a moms group or online forum or simply talk to other mothers at your child’s school or daycare. By sharing tips and advice, you’ll learn how to manage your time and health better.
There’s nothing wrong with seeking support from others, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed. So don’t be afraid to reach out to other working mothers for help. Who knows? You may even make some lifelong friends in the process.
Habit #10: Practice self-compassion
When you have too much on your plate, you’ll often be less forgiving of yourself when you make mistakes. This happens, but it’s still important to practice self-compassion nonetheless. After all, you’re only human, and you’re doing the best you can. So, don’t be too hard on yourself when you fall short of your goals. Instead, try to be understanding and forgiving.
By adopting these ten habits, you’ll be on your way to a healthier and more balanced life as a working mom. Just remember to take things one step at a time and be patient with yourself. And trust that you can raise your kids to the best of your abilities despite your shortcomings!
