Parenting can be stressful for everyone, regardless if you are doing it on your own, or as a couple.Figuring out the ways to reduce the tension you feel on a daily basis is important. Life nowadays is faster than ever before, and that brings up a whole new set of problems, especially for parents. So if you are constantly worrying about your job or where your kids need to go and when it will take a toll on your family’s relationship.
It will also take a toll on your body and mental health. Each and every one of us will experience different symptoms of stress. Some people will feel increased appetite while other will lose any interest in food. There are other physical signs such as chronic fatigue and headaches that will signal you it is time to slow it down and clear your mind. If you still refuse to face the stress, you might end up with more serious illnesses.
Your thoughts are the primary source of the stress, so in order to make you feel more relaxed, that should be your starting point—finding ways to ease your mind. There are many ways to de-stress, but you need to discover which works best for you.
Here are some methods that will help you take the stress out of your family life, and get your collective mental health on track.
Take a deep breath
You have probably heard about this one numerous times, but deep breathing really works and it can release the tension right away.
The majority of us do not breathe properly, even if we are not under severe stress. But if you are feeling any type of pressure, your breathing pattern will be shallow. The shortage of air can worsen the situation so you need to teach yourself how to increase your oxygen intake in order to relax your whole body.
First of all, find a quiet place in your home where you feel comfortable laying down. You can even use your yoga mat for that. Stretch out on an even surface and lay on your back. Place one hand on your stomach and another one on your chest. Start to breathe deep. Do your best to slow down your breath and focus on the movement of your body. You should feel your ribs and stomach expanding with each inhalation. This means that you are breathing properly.
It takes time to master this practice so try to do it every single day. You don’t have to spend more than ten minutes laying down. Your body will adapt and your daily breathing pattern will change. You will probably feel more energized and less tense in stressful situations as well.
Find a hobby
Immersing your brain in an activity you find stimulating is another great way to de-stress. If you love reading books, join a library. You can also encourage your little ones to do the same.
Do some quick research and see if there are any book clubs in your area. It might be fun to discuss literary works with a small group of people. Listen to some music during your free time and dance around your room. It is an excellent form of exercise that will bring a smile to your face.
Speaking of physical activity, you can also join a gym, or start going on regular walks after you return home from work.
You might even feel like hiking through nature if you prefer fresh air. Make it a family thing and invite your kids to join you. You will spend more time together doing a healthy activity which will strengthen the bond between you.
Yoga classes will both stretch out your muscles, release the tension you might feel after a long day at work, and give you more tips on how to breathe properly. This activity will teach you how to manage your breathing pattern and use it to fuel the moves. Plus, sweating is always good so you will feel more relaxed afterward, even if you didn’t feel like going to the class.
Go on a vacation
Family vacations might feel stressful for some but all it takes is proper organization and it can be the best thing for both you and your family. Changing the environment can do wonders for your mind and body.
You can also start planning the trip together as a family, which will keep you occupied and bring you closer than ever. Being by the water and listening to the sounds of the ocean can clear up your thoughts and make you less tense.
A good vacation to take as a family is to an all-inclusive resort. You can leave all your things at home, there’s activities for all family members, and things you can do together. There is usually daycare so parents can sneak off and have a night out. Just make sure you pick a resort for families, not an adults-only resort. This distinction is important. You don’t want to end up in the newlywed’s suite with your kids.
Additionally, if your work is making you feel stressed, you can recharge your batteries, and return more focused than ever. Don’t forget to be active during your family vacation and spend as much time as you can with your loved ones. Sign up for various interesting classes if you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, and explore the place.
