Hey there mamas! Whether you have one child or five, we can all agree that life can get hectic. When we get caught up in our busy lives we can easily forget to “Stop and smell the roses” or be mindful. Mindfulness by definition is focusing one’s awareness on the present moment. Practicing mindfulness throughout the day and teaching it to our children will improve life today and make for a better tomorrow.
Here are my top 3 ways to practice mindfulness in hopes of more smiles and fewer tantrums.
1. Notice the beauty of nature.
This could include collecting a few leaves outside, talking about their different sizes and colors. Talk about how trees start out as just small seedlings and how big they are now. How old you do you think the tree could be? Can you name some of the animals that call trees home? If you aren’t near any trees, just look up to the clouds. What do the clouds look like to you? Does your child see the same? Both of these practices make us use our imagination and are great for all ages!
2. Show yourself some love.
Too often I find myself making comparisons to others, thinking that I wish I was different. When I noticed my daughters doing this and it broke my heart. Since then we started this new daily habit and it has shaped our minds to be more confident and less harsh on ourselves. Every morning before we start our busy day and every night before we go to bed, My daughters and I tell each other 6 things we like about ourselves. 3 things are Physical (My Hair, My nail shape, My eyes, Etc.) and 3 things that are Personality traits (My creativity, My honesty, My Loyalty, Etc.). Continue to talk positive about yourselves and soon your confidence will naturally build up.
3. Breath.
I know, this sounds so cliché but just try it! When you (or our child) are having one of those moments when the world is spinning, Anxiety is taken over, all anyone can do is scream and cry. Just STOP & BREATHE! Close your eyes, put both feet on the floor, and take a few deep breaths. Focus on the actual process of breathing in and out, Imagine all the stress leaving your body as you exhale. I like to picture the beach (My happy place) and imagine my breaths aligning with the waves. Figure out what is your happy place and go there.
Bonus – Practice gratitude daily!
Stay strong mamas and know that you are not alone! Remind yourself that life is truly beautiful if you just learn to look for the sunshine! If you enjoyed reading my mindfulness tips make sure you follow me on IG and FB!
XO Amy



