As a mom of a 1- and 3-year-old, running a business, and homeschooling, I truly understand the daily battles we face. There are the meltdowns, the endless negotiations over snacks and screen time, the seemingly non-stop sweeping of crumbs, and of course, the constant chorus of “Mom!” being called a million times. But despite the hard days, there are so many beautiful moments—the firsts we get to witness, the pure joy from new discoveries, the smiles, and those tender brotherly moments. It’s easy to get lost in the highs and lows, the chaos and the joy, without finding a way to balance it all.
Over time, I learned that the best way to manage stress is to find small, meaningful ways to center myself daily. These moments are essential to help me stay calm and present, especially on those days when everything feels like it’s too much.
Here are the practices I’ve embraced to manage daily stress and anxiety that may help you too:
1. Seek Out Sunlight
This one sounds simple, but it’s so powerful. There’s something about stepping outside and letting the sun hit your skin that shifts your mood. If I’m feeling overwhelmed, a few minutes of sunlight often helps ground me. Whether it’s a quick walk outside or even just standing in the doorway for a few breaths, those small moments outside can recharge me for what’s next.
2. Journaling to Release Your Thoughts
When your brain is swirling with the endless tasks and needs of the day, journaling can be a lifesaver. I’ll grab a notebook and jot down whatever is on my mind—things I’m grateful for, frustrations, worries, or just what I need to remember for tomorrow. Even a few minutes of this can make a huge difference. It’s like giving your mind a break, creating a bit of order in the chaos.
3. Pause and Breathe
Sometimes, all it takes is a few deep breaths to feel more grounded. I’ve learned to pause when I’m feeling overwhelmed, take a few slow, deep breaths, and reset. This is especially helpful when my little ones are both demanding attention at the same time. A few intentional breaths can bring me back to a calmer state, reminding me to respond instead of react.
4. Move Your Body
Movement is a great way to release stress. Sometimes it’s a short walk, stretching, or even dancing around the living room with the kids. Other days, it’s a more intentional workout when I have the time. Moving my body gets me out of my head and back into the present, helping to relieve built-up tension.
5. Find What Fills Your Nervous System so you can start Managing Daily Stress and Anxiety as a Mom
We often hear about “self-care,” but I’ve found that the most effective way to handle stress is to identify what really fills my nervous system. Our nervous systems are sensitive to the chaos and noise of daily life, and when we’re constantly in “go mode,” our bodies slip into fight-or-flight, as if they’re responding to a real danger. For us moms, that “danger” might just be the intensity of two little ones crying at the same time or the feeling of being pulled in too many directions.
For me, things like sipping on a warm tea, listening to soothing music, or spending a few quiet moments alone help to fill my nervous system and calm my body. It’s important to find what fills your nervous system, those small acts that let your mind and body know it’s safe, even when life feels like it’s spinning out of control.
Being a mom isn’t easy, and the demands can often feel overwhelming. But through small, intentional practices, I’ve learned how to manage the daily stress and show up for my family in the way I want to. You can take action to start Managing Daily Stress and Anxiety as a Mom.
If you’re feeling stretched thin, remember that managing stress isn’t about eliminating it—it’s about finding ways to center yourself so you can handle whatever comes your way. If you’re looking for more tools and community support, the Nurturing the Mama Membership offers guidance on finding balance in your everyday life, helping you stay connected to both yourself and your family.
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