Making self-care a priority

Let's face it Motherhood is a juggling act!
In comes summer break and the desire to pack it all in and make it the best time your family has experienced. The end result, some BUSY fun filled days! Mom's are constantly giving which is absolutely necessary but can be depleting if they aren't filling their "cups" first. In order to be at your absolute best, making yourself a priority is essential. When we are nurturing ourselves, we are more able to give, creating a balance that feels just right. I know when I take time to refuel I am more patient and understanding with my children and feel an overall sense of balance. Consider the tips below and know that there will be times when getting out of the house isn't realistic. Make it happen in your home, after all flexibility provides endless possibilities!

Four tips to make self-care a priority:
1. Put yourself on your priority list
2. Create a plan of what self-care looks like, i.e., description, times per wk/mo, actual rituals that are rejuvenating, etc.
3. Request the time "off" and get help from your spouse, babysitter, mother, etc.
4. Now actually do it!
5. Notice the impact. You will be amazed. I know I was!

Here's to YOU and filling your cup first!

"Self-care is about nurturing yourself on all levels- physically, mentally, emotionally,
and spiritually-so you can live, love and parent optimally."
Renee Trudeau

The gift of the present moment

We live in an amazing time where technology has changed our world significantly. This also means that we have the ability to become overly accessible and distracted. The 24/7 mentality can become difficult to manage for many of us. It has the potential to take us away from being present with ourselves and those we love. Our relationships may suffer because we have lost sight of what's most important, connecting on a deeper level. Have you ever picked up your phone and began reading e-mail while in a conversation with someone? I think most of us have without thinking about the unintentional message we are sending.

Sometimes I get lost in the fast paced world and have to remind myself that being present is a continuous process. What I've learned is that when I become more conscious I am better able to sense when I'm falling short. My children have also guided me with unspoken words to see the beauty and life in everything. I continue to look to them for guidance when I find that I am losing my way. Their laughter, smiles, sincere expressions, and unconditional love are constant reminders that life is precious and only I can make the decision to savor every minute of it.

I wanted to share this photo of my daughter because it reflects a time when we were fully engaged and in the moment. It's the little reminders my children provide that allow me to be the mother I long to become and the inspiration for them as they grow into their own.

"The past exists only in our memories, the future only in our plans,
The present is our only reality."
Robert Pirsig

A Mother's Day Reflection

As I was enjoying some quiet time on Mother's Day I began thinking about the transformation I have experienced as a Mom. What has been the biggest impact?
As I reflected I remembered the first few years of Benjamin's life and not wanting to leave him in fear that I would miss something. As a full time working Mom I wanted to get "my fix" with my little guy and that meant spending each and every moment outside of work with him. That's what a "good" Mom does was the limited belief I was carrying around.

After years of trying to beat the clock it got the best of me. I was exhausted and lost my sense of individuality. The role of Mom had become my identity.
Guilt ridden but knowing that self-care needed to be at the top of my priority list I joined a few Yoga classes. The first few times I left the house were not easy, especially when Benjamin was crying and didn't want me to leave.

What I know for sure is that when I take the time to rejuvenate and connect with myself I am better able to be the Mom I want to be for my children.
A win-win for all of us!

In honor of Mother's Day I am offering a free copy of The Mothers Guide to Self-Renewal to the 50th person who becomes a fan. This resource has changed my life so much that I have become a Personal Renewal Group Facilitator and want to share this manual with one of you.

What is your favorite self-care ritual?

Transforming Motherhood Blog

Welcome!

I am excited to announce the inception of my blog, "Transforming Motherhood".

On this site I will post personal experiences, stories, information, and resources that have impacted my life. In doing so, my goal is to impact yours. Together, we will create a community of "like minded Mom's" who come together to explore, communicate and learn from each other.

Become a fan and subscribe to receive notification of new postings.
Looking forward to connecting with each of you.

With Gratitude,
Amy