Being a mum is a full-time job, and it can often lead to feelings of exhaustion and burnout. Juggling a career or running a household alongside attending to your children can take a serious toll on your energy levels. Then there’s the stress you feel because you put too much pressure on yourself. So, what can you do to boost your energy?
Looking at your nutrition, mindset and hormones can all play a big part in your energy levels. Below I’m sharing some tips and things to think about that will help you stay energised and motivated more naturally.
Life is easier when it’s simple!
And the simplest thing you can do to stay energised is to stay hydrated.
Dehydration can cause fatigue. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your hydration levels at their best. You could add some fruit to make it a bit more interesting. Try adding more foods that have a high water content into your diet, such as cucumber, tomatoes, watermelon and celery.
Speaking of food… top way number 2 is to eat a healthy diet.
Doing this ensures your body gets all the necessary nutrients it needs to stay fit and energised. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The food you eat also impacts certain hormones in your body. Eating foods rich in iodine and selenium, such as seaweed, fish, nuts and seeds, helps support healthy thyroid function, which regulates your metabolism and energy levels. Avoid sugary and processed foods that can cause energy crashes.
Sleep is important for everyone but especially if you’re pregnant or a new mum.
Lack of sleep can cause exhaustion, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. You want to try and ensure you have healthy melatonin levels to help boost your energy. If you don’t have a newborn, then aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. If you have a new baby then I know this is much trickier! Try to nap when they nap and don’t try to accomplish too much around the house. My top tip is to create a relaxing bedtime routine that helps you wind down and avoid stimulation, like using electronic devices before bed. Perhaps use lavender pillow spray and enjoy a relaxing bath right before you go to sleep.
Take regular breaks.
When you are busy with work or other tasks, it’s easy to forget to take breaks. However, taking regular breaks can help you rejuvenate and stay focused. Take short, frequent breaks throughout your day, and engage in activities that help you destress, such as stretching, reading, or meditating. These natural stress relief activities will help to combat adrenal fatigue – our body’s natural fight/flight response.
Think about your monthly cycle.
Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle can also impact your energy levels. During the first half of your menstrual cycle, oestrogen levels increase, leading to a surge of energy. However, during the second half of the cycle progesterone increases leading to feelings of drowsiness. Plan ahead and try to do less strenuous tasks or physical activity during the second half of your cycle.
Exercise is a great way to boost your energy levels as it releases endorphins and improves blood flow. Obviously, I’m a massive advocate for it! But people get put off by feeling that it’s boring or has to cost a lot of money. Combat this by engaging in physical activities that you enjoy, such as walking in nature, yoga, or dancing. The more you can make exercise a regular part of your routine, the more likely you are to stick to it so try to aim for at least 30 minutes of activity every day.
Look on the bright side of life!
Yes, trying to stay positive and your attitude towards things can impact your energy levels. Stay positive and try to maintain a can-do attitude, even when faced with challenges. Switch up your mindset by focusing on what you have accomplished, celebrating your successes, no matter how small.
As a busy mum, it’s important to keep your energy levels high, so you can tackle all the tasks that come your way. Taking time to pay attention to your basic needs, thinking about what your body and mind require and understanding your hormones can improve your energy levels. By implementing natural methods such as stress relief, a healthy diet, regular exercise and enough sleep, you can support your hormones, boost your energy levels and stay motivated throughout your day. Remember, self-care is a crucial part of being a mum, and taking care of your energy levels is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your family.
You can find some healthy recipes that can boost your energy levels here