If you’re like me, you are a busy mom taking care of everyone else – packing lunches, dropping off the car pool, working, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, getting everyone ready for bed – then repeat! There are a few simple things we can do to focus on ourselves, feel better and be healthier.
Check out my segment on ABC15 HERE!
SLEEP: Doctors recommend that we get 7-9 hours of sleep a night (cue the lady saying “Ain’t Nobody Got Time for That!”) but often times, even if we are able to for that into our schedule it can be hard to unwind at night. A 2005 study by the National Sleep Foundation showed that women often have a harder time falling asleep at night than men. We are often busy until that last second before we hit the pillow, and sometimes it can be hard to unwind.
Here are three tips for better sleep:
- Turn off electronics about an hour before bed. That means no cell phones, laptops, tablets in bed! How about having a conversation with your partner, reading a book, or taking a nice warm bath instead?
- Don’t eat at least two hours before bed. This one can be hard for me because I grew up in a household where we got “bedtime snacks” but really, it’s best not to eat. Sleep is the chance for our bodies to rejuvenate and it’s hard for it to do that if it’s busy digesting food.
- Stick to natural supplements if you need a sleep aid. Avoid taking something that may be habit-forming or can give you a groggy feeling in the morning – that can cause a vicious cycle. Instead, try something natural like this botanical Melatonin-based sleep spray from Arbonne. I’ve been using it for a few weeks and am getting better sleep than I have in a long time! You can ask any questions about this spray from my friend (and Arbonne expert, Sharon)
FRUITS & VEGGIES: We’ve all heard the campaign “5 a Day for Better Health” and that is something I strive for each day. Consumption of fruits & veggies helps prevent high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and has even been shown to help prevent cancer. My daughter and I start the day with Fruit & Veggie Vits. (you can find them at GNC) These give you your entire fruit & veggie serving in one chewable! (Added Bonus: they have more probiotics than yogurt which helps with digestion and boosts immunity)
EXERCISE: We all know we need to get exercise but as a busy mom that can be harder than it seems. Put baby in the stroller and take him out for a long walk or jog. If you via the video above, you’ll see my friend Amy of Fit4Mom demonstrating some exercises you can do along the way. (squats, anyone?)
One tip Amy shared with me was to schedule in exercise every day. As busy moms we know things will come up so even if we have to cancel a few days, we will still likely get in 3-4 days of exercise. Just take it one step at a time!
What are your tips on being a happy and healthy mom?
xo – Jenn
