Prioritizing Well-Being: How to Stay Healthy and Happy During the Busy Fall Season

As we approach the start of the school year it is important that, as a mom, you mentally prepare yourself for the added demands that come with this new fall season. We will soon be catapulted back into school schedules, extracurricular activities and gearing up for the busy holiday season on top of our daily routines and work schedules, whether we are ready or not. The added strain can take more time away from your self-care routine, which makes adapting to the stresses more challenging.

A mindfulness practice will help you adapt to the additional stresses that come your way.

For myself, I know it is important that I have "me time", alone. With the overstimulation of two young kids, I find that having quiet time where I can process my own thoughts, without distraction, is important. I take a sauna to help detox while using the seclusion as a time to reset for myself. Also, making time to connect with a friend over tea or to go for a walk provides an opportunity to not only vent my stress and laugh with someone of a similar experience but also to have a like-minded adult conversation with someone other than my husband.

Rest and nutrition are other important factors in feeling your best in this upcoming season. This is definitely one of the most difficult things to prioritize because there is so much to do! When meal planning, I always ensure the meals are nutritious and healthy for our whole family. Whenever possible, I forego the screen time at night and just get in bed. We tend to want to zone out with the distraction of phones and TVs, but nothing can replace a good night's rest.

Here are some practical tips and resources to help ensure your self-care does not get neglected during the rest of this year as schedules become more hectic:

1. Prioritize Self-Care

• Schedule "Me Time": Block out specific times in your calendar for self-care, just as you would for any other important appointment.

• Set Boundaries: Communicate with your family about the importance of your self-care time and set clear boundaries to ensure it’s respected.

2. Simplify and Delegate

• Streamline Routines: Simplify your daily routines and eliminate unnecessary tasks to free up more time.

• Delegate Tasks: Share household responsibilities with your partner and children. Assign age-appropriate tasks to kids to lighten your load. This is a tough one, but giving kids responsibilities is a huge factor in their growth and autonomy. Whether you have a partner or not, please ask someone for help.

3. Incorporate Self-Care into Daily Activities

• Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness while performing daily tasks, such as deep breathing or focusing on the present moment. Check out Black Girls Breathing for tools and support.

• Physical Activity: Integrate physical activity into your day, such as taking a walk during your lunch break or doing yoga with your children. Try the Black Kids Do Yoga Youtube Channel.

4. Stay Organized

• Plan Ahead: Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of school schedules, extracurricular activities, and your self-care time.

• Meal Prep: Prepare meals in advance to save time and reduce stress during busy weekdays. Here are some ideas from Epicurious!

5. Connect with Others

• Support Network: Connect with other mothers for support, advice, and encouragement. Consider joining a local or online group.

• Social Time: Make time for social activities with friends to recharge and maintain your social well-being. Check the Black New Orleans Mom calender for events for mom gatherings and playdates.

6. Focus on Small, Enjoyable Activities

• Quick Breaks: Take short breaks throughout the day for activities you enjoy, such as reading a book, listening to music, or enjoying a cup of tea. Try these local, Black-woman-owned, healing herbal tea blends.

• Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to small indulgences like a home spa day, a favorite snack, or a relaxing bath. Try a spiritual bath to reset on a holistic level.

 7. Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition

• Healthy Sleep Habits: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to ensure you get enough rest.

• Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet to keep your energy levels up and to support overall well-being.

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed

• Therapist or Counselor: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a therapist or counselor for professional support.

• Health Check-ups: Regularly schedule check-ups with your healthcare provider to maintain your physical and mental health.

By incorporating these self-care strategies, you can better manage the demands of the school year and holiday season while taking care of your own well-being. Remember, it is essential for you to feel your best so you can offer your most positive energy to your loved ones!