Motherhood is a beautiful, challenging journey that often feels overwhelming, especially for new moms. Ayla Will, our recent podcast guest, shared valuable insights on how to navigate the early stages of motherhood. Inspired by her advice, we've created a daily checklist that can be laminated for easy reference. This checklist is designed to help you prioritize your mental health and well-being.
Print and laminate your own daily checklist here.
1. Ask for Help
- Why it's important: As Ayla mentioned, feeling alone is common, but it’s crucial to reach out. Family and friends often want to help, and letting them know your struggles can provide much-needed support.
- How to implement: Identify a trusted person you can call or text when you need assistance, whether it's for a short break or some emotional support.
2. Stay Hydrated
- Why it's important: Dehydration can affect your mood and energy levels. Keeping hydrated helps maintain your physical and mental health.
- How to implement: Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and set reminders to take sips regularly.
3. Eat Your Own Balanced Meal
- Why it's important: Moms often eat leftovers from their children’s plates, which can lead to inadequate nutrition. Balanced meals with protein are essential for sustaining energy and health.
- How to implement: Plan and prep your meals ahead of time. Make sure to include a good source of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
4. Exercise
- Why it's important: Exercise reduces stress and boosts mood. Even a short walk can significantly impact your well-being by lowering stress-related chemicals like glutamate.
- How to implement: Find a form of exercise that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, Pilates, or a quick HIIT session, and incorporate it into your daily routine.
5. Get Outside
- Why it's important: Fresh air and sunshine, especially in the morning, help regulate sleep and improve mood. Grounding, or walking barefoot, can also have positive effects on your mood.
- How to implement: Aim to spend at least 12 minutes outside daily, preferably in the morning. Consider activities like walking with your kids or spending time in the garden.
6 -9. Choose your own!
- Get creative. Identify a specific goal that is important to you and add it to your checklist. It could be related to a hobby, a self-care practice, or a daily task.
Motherhood is a journey filled with joys and challenges. By following this daily checklist inspired by Ayla Will's advice, you can take small but significant steps towards maintaining your mental health. Remember, you are not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help. Stay hydrated, eat well, exercise, get outside, and set personal goals to support your well-being.
Feel free to print this checklist and laminate it for daily use. Your mental health matters, and taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your family.