1. Eat something for breakfast. 

   Fruit is a great breakfast choice. People who eat something sweet at breakfast have less cravings for sweet foods during the rest of the day.  People who eat breakfast are less likely to have an afternoon junk food binge and have more stable energy levels. Make sure that your kitchen is stocked with quick breakfast options (especially healthy grab and go options like fruit, breakfast muffins, small tubs of yoghurt or granola bars).

2. Give and receive hugs

   Get a hug (or two) when you walk in the door, from your partner, your kids, or even your dog. Proper deep hugs help to calm down your stress chemicals and release feel good oxytocin. They can instantly boost your mood and reduce feelings of loneliness (which is a common feeling for mums!).  

3. Take a deep breath... and let it go!

   Self-regulate by checking in with yourself throughout your day. Even getting up 15 minutes earlier than your kids to sit down, take a few breaths and have a warm drink can help you relax and feel re-energised for the day.

4.  Delegate

   If you can't do it all, ask for help.  Don't feel like you're failing if you need to ask for help.  Vulnerability shows strength and whether they admit it or not, every mum feels like they would love some extra help at some point. If you don’t have family around, organise with friends to look after their kids for a day and they can look after yours next time.

5.  "Dolce far Niente" - Do nothing!

   Take a few moments to yourself or keep pockets of time unplanned, and resist the urge to fill them.  Take opportunities to indulge in "the joy of doing nothing...” It’s definitely not selfish to make yourself a priority sometimes! Taking time out for yourself can help you become more patient and attentive to the special little people in your life. 

A Supermum does not exist! When you feel good about other things in your life apart from your kids, you will feel motivated, proud and full of energy. 

Happy Mother's Day to all the gentle and fierce mothers out there! from all of us at Wholesomeness.

This lioness is a metaphor for strength and gentleness.  She can hold her cub in her mouth without killing it, yet no one would want to be held in those jaws any other time.  Motherhood is often about mastering the art of being fiercely gentle and gently fierce.