Mom Breaks
Integrate them consciously. Make time in your schedule just for you.
Most of the time, Mom comes last - not because everyone forgets about us or doesn't consider our needs, but let's be honest, and maybe it's just me, but I regularly put myself at the bottom of the list after I take care of everyone else.
Often, when things are going well (does that happen much?) and we're well rested, we're exercising, we're eating well, and we're not stressed, it's fine.
But when the balance is out of whack - when a child is sick, there are a lot of chores to take care of, workloads are increasing, a newborn keeps us from sleeping much, and you throw in a major cross-continental move or just moving house - things start to fall apart.
Given the profound and distinctive role we play as women and mothers in our households, we have a unique and invaluable mandate. We are the artisans of a loving, safe, and beautiful environment, creating not only a residence but a home. The responsibility of being the architects of the atmosphere in our homes is monumental. As mothers, we speak prophetically over our husbands and children, embodying the roles of comforter, provider, and teacher. Our influence is great, and our responsibility is profound.
When we, as mothers, are not thriving, it has a ripple effect throughout the household. The subtle imbalance may be difficult to pinpoint, but its presence is tangible. Frustration quietly creeps in, causing us to become irritable with a short fuse. There are moments when our voices rise unintentionally, and yes, I am talking about myself.
When my children reach an age where they reflect on my behavior and express concern, asking, "What's wrong with me?" it serves as a poignant reminder. Their perception is a mirror that reflects my condition I'm not feeling well, they feel the impact of my unfair actions, anger, and short temper.
Let's be intentional about creating moments just for us, even amid chaos and demands. Finding those precious times of self-care and rejuvenation becomes imperative. Prioritizing our well-being ultimately equips us to nurture the well-being of our families.
Let us rise above our circumstances. We are not meant to stay there; our mission is too important to drop the ball. Let's resist complacency and reject the lie that this is the way things are. The idea that every mother is stressed with a baby, toddler, preschooler, or teenager perpetuates a cycle of frustration with no room for hope.
The key is to rise above our circumstances-there is always hope!
In our current culture, busyness and constant hurry have become badges of honor, as if they will earn us higher rank and recognition. But it's a deceptive facade, for behind this lie lies only exhaustion, which guarantees that we will have little patience left for our loved ones.
Take courageous, sometimes uncelebrated steps to strengthen your body, soul, and spirit.
The value goes beyond yourself - it reaches your marriage, your children, and generations to come. Rise above the lies.
This is an opportune time to pause and reflect on our lives. Let's invite Holy Spirit to reveal the current state. How are we doing? Where have we lost hope or given in to the status quo? Where is He calling us to arise?
Take a moment to dig deeper and allow the truth to infuse your being.
When we as mothers are in a state of "being well"-understanding that "well" doesn't mean perfection, but involves actively processing emotions, maintaining healthy boundaries, and communicating authentically-the impact is profound. Our homes shine like cities on a hill.
Strategically placed in countries, villages, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces, it's no accident, but a divine plan for us to reflect the love of Jesus and offer the hope that only He can provide.
Realize that wherever we go, we carry His atmosphere with us because He dwells in us. Let us be awed by this profound truth.
The way we love and respect our husbands, and the way we raise, support, and guide our children becomes a testimony to His faithfulness and infinite wisdom. Having a healthy family isn't just for our benefit; it's a glimpse into a much larger and more purposeful picture.
Every element is strategically orchestrated in the intricate tapestry of life. Your neighbors aren't there by chance, and your children's teachers are positioned to receive a special touch of God through your life. Even in the seemingly mundane moments, divine connections are waiting to unfold.
Imagine that as you wait to pick up your children, the mother standing next to you needs a timely word, a dose of courage, or a prophetic insight straight from the Father's heart. Your life, your presence, becomes a conduit for something greater, a divine exchange in the ordinary moments of life.
It's a recognition that our lives are interwoven with purpose, and everyday encounters are opportunities to be vessels of love, encouragement, and hope. As you go about your daily routine, consider the sacred potential embedded in each moment to bring a touch of heaven to those around you.
Isn't that exciting?
If you find yourself feeling discouraged, and the prospect of another list of duties seems like an additional burden while you're just trying to survive each day, remember that you are never meant to do it alone.
Let’s consider a couple of ways to courageously embrace our mandate and rise above:
Spend time with God every day, whether through reading the Bible, worshiping, meditating on His Word, quietly enjoying His company, or listening to Him- there are many ways. If you find yourself in a rut, consider taking a prayer walk, sitting on a bench, or finding new ways to connect with God.
Renew your mind, for it is essential. Romans 12:2 NIV emphasizes, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Cultivate the habit of daily renewal through His Word and the Holy Spirit. This practice empowers you to discern God's will, leading to a life that is beautiful, satisfying, and perfect in His sight.
Process your thoughts and feelings. Take time to process what is going on inside of you. Don't push the discomfort aside; instead, lean into it, lay it out before God, and process it. Set aside a special time each week and treat it as you would a meeting. Allow God to lead you on a healing journey. Seek additional help if needed.
Sleep is critical to overall well-being, and it's recommended that adults get 7 or more hours of sleep each night. It's equally important to instill healthy sleep patterns in children from an early age, following the recommended hours for their age group.
Infants 4 months to 12 months 12 to 16 hours per 24 hours, including naps
1 to 2 years 11 to 14 hours per 24 hours, including naps
3-5 years 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours, including naps
6-12 years 9 to 12 hours per 24 hours
13-18 years 8 to 10 hours per 24 hours
Consider the amount of sleep your children are getting, especially in cultures where evening activities extend late into the night. Despite societal norms, it's important to prioritize healthy sleep patterns for your children. Research consistently shows the importance of adequate sleep for their well-being.
If you live in Spain, where evenings are lively, you may notice children playing outside until late at night. Even if your child resists bedtime, realize that it's not a valid reason to compromise on their essential sleep needs. Making sure they get enough sleep is a precious gift that will benefit them throughout their lives. Stay tuned for more insights on this topic in future posts.
Engage in activities you love, whether it's taking a relaxing bath, enjoying fresh flowers, going for a hike, or taking an art class. Acknowledging that as mothers, finding time for self-care can be challenging, especially when navigating different phases of life, is essential. While your current circumstances may not allow for certain activities, it's crucial not to overlook the moments when you can prioritize self-care. Reevaluate your current season, recognizing that self-care doesn't always require grand gestures. Even small, intentional moments can contribute significantly to your overall well-being.
Love yourself Reflecting on the profound words from Matthew 22:39, where we are instructed to "Love the Lord your God with every passion of your heart, with all the energy of your being, and with every thought that is within you," it becomes evident that the second part holds equal importance: "You must love your friend in the same way you love yourself."
While we often emphasize the importance of loving God and fulfilling our mission to love others, the directive to love ourselves in the same way raises thought-provoking questions. Do we extend to ourselves the same love, care, and kindness that we willingly extend to others?
In considering this, there may be hesitation and concern about taking the concept of self-love too far or misapplying it. We've seen it happen. However, the scriptural guidance implies that self-love is a fundamental aspect of the commandment, and to shy away from it simply because it has been poorly handled is not right.
It is wise to seek God's counsel. Engage in a sincere conversation with Him, exploring questions such as, "How well do I love myself?" and "In what ways can I improve in extending love to myself?"
This reflective journey is in keeping with the divine order of love, which includes love for God, love for others, and an equal love for oneself. As you embark on this exploration, may you discover new dimensions of self-love that will enrich your life and promote a balanced and holistic approach to love in its many forms.
As you prioritize your well-being in body, mind, and spirit, maintain a balance rather than focusing excessively on one aspect. Taking care of yourself benefits your entire family, your neighborhood, and beyond.
Avoid rushing from one commitment to another, as this leaves little room for family and personal time. To support your responsibilities at home and beyond, build moments of self-care into your schedule.