It’s Literally Called “Baby Weight”.
Having a little one definitely changes your entire lifestyle.
Before becoming a parent, I took for granted all the free time I had to focus on myself, things like leisurely workouts or spontaneous "me time." Now, my 20-minute workouts often stretch into two hours, thanks to constant interruptions. But honestly, my child keeps me active and present in ways I never imagined. Despite the challenges that come with motherhood, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything, she’s my greatest motivation and joy.
(Our living room/playroom/at-home-gym.)
How Busy Moms Can Prioritize Their Health and Wellness
If you're a busy mom, finding time for yourself to exercise, meditate, or prepare healthy meals can feel nearly impossible. But here's the good news—it is possible!
The key is learning how to prioritize your day, making small adjustments to your current routine, implementing simple and healthy habits, and, most importantly, setting realistic expectations for your health goals.
What Does It Mean to Be Realistic?
It’s about setting yourself up for success instead of overwhelming yourself with unattainable goals. Start small, be flexible, and focus on what you can do, not what you think you "should" do.
For example:
1. Simplify Your Workout Routine
If spending an hour at the gym five days a week isn’t realistic, consider alternatives:
Try quick 20-minute workouts at home three times a week.
Use your own body weight for exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups.
Take advantage of nap times or playtimes with your little one to sneak in movement.
The goal is progress, not perfection—any movement is better than none!
2. Make Meals Simple and Healthy
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Try these tips:
Focus on whole foods. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals.
Use your kitchen gadgets. A smoothie blender, crockpot, or pressure cooker can save time while ensuring balanced meals.
Try sheet-pan dinners. Pinterest is a goldmine for easy recipes that require minimal prep and cleanup.
Meal prep when possible. Make extra servings at dinner to have ready-to-go lunches for the week.
Consider a meal service. Services like Marley & Spoon or Hello Fresh can simplify meal planning.
I’ve personally used these services, and it was a game changer for our evenings. Keep in mind there are a wide array of options so don’t settle on the ones mentioned if they do not appeal to you!
3. Practice Mindfulness on the Go
Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean sitting in a quiet room for 20 minutes with your eyes closed. As a busy mom, it’s important to find ways to integrate mindfulness into your daily routine:
Practice deep breathing while brushing your teeth or showering.
Meditate for just one minute during breakfast or while waiting for something to cook.
Try walking or driving meditations to make use of the time you already have.
If you’re looking for support, apps like Balance offer quick guided meditations tailored to your activities, from walking to deep breathing exercises. These small moments of mindfulness can help you reset and recharge without disrupting your schedule.
Small Steps Lead to Big Wins
Remember, you don’t need to overhaul your entire life overnight to prioritize your health. Start with small, manageable changes that fit into your routine, and build from there.
Whether it’s a quick workout, a healthy sheet-pan dinner, or a one-minute meditation, these simple adjustments can make a big difference in how you feel—mentally and physically.
You've got this, mama! What’s one step you can take today to prioritize your wellness?
This all may sound easy enough but you still may be missing one thing… ACCOUNTABILITY.
By working with a Certified Health Coach, you will receive the kind of support you need in order to successfully achieve the health you deserve!