Let’s face it, being a Mom is beyond a full time job. There are no weekends off, no holidays, no paid vacation days, or even sick days, and I feel like it’s been go-go-go since my babies were born. I’m ok with that, mostly; after all this is the life I chose. But what I’m not ok with is what I forgot about in the past 7 years – me!
If there is one thing I have learned is that in order to be the Entrepreneur, Wife and Mom I need and want to be, I really have to start taking care of myself. This is something all of us Moms tend to forget to do, or don’t make time to do
After moving to the Okanagan I was completely drained and exhausted. We had just moved into our new home, in this new and slightly unfamiliar city, and while I was beyond excited about our new life here, I was constantly focusing on the kids (who were about to start a new school) and all those other Mom things that we tend to take on and worry about. The emotion and stress of it all was just so apparent in my mind and body – and even in the dark circles under my eyes. At that point I knew something had to change. I had to start making time to take care of me.
When I have been asked in the past as to what activities I like to do to relieve stress, the number one answer I would always reply with was both running and yoga; hot yoga to be more specific. Both have always been so beneficial to me for both mind and body and they both serve me well today. Running allows me to hit the pavement and burn off a negative day, while yoga provides me with this inner peace and calmness. If you are a yoga fan, then you know exactly what I am talking about. More recently I joined a local gym (Pure Gym + Juicery) and fell in love with spinning! Have you ever tried it? To be honest the first time I wanted to die. After 10 years of not being on a bike I honestly thought my thighs were going to catch fire. But I didn’t quit. I signed up for another class and from that point on I was hooked. The cardio, the energy, the adrenaline, and the way the instructor pushes you to go for more is so incredibly motivating. It was just what my mind and body needed. Spinning is my therapy, the ME time that works with my schedule and my life, and while I only commit to two days a week right now – it’s just what I need.
So now that I’m committed to my weekly cardio routine, I was feeling better but I felt like I needed something more. I’ve never been good at taking medications, vitamins or supplements of any kind but I realized it was time to learn.With a quick visit to my local Nature’s Fare Markets here are 4 products I honestly cannot live without; my whole family is now addicted.
1. CALM, by Natural Vitality – Who knew my body was lacking magnesium. If you have any of these following magnesium depletion symptoms, you must view and perhaps even try this product. It has done wonders for me! Unbalanced magnesium symptoms can be: stress, fatigue and low energy, inability to sleep, muscle tenion, spasms and cramps, irritability, headaches, weakness, PMS and hormonal imbalances, weakening bones, abnormal heart rhythm and constipation.
2. Nutra Sea Omega, Kids – A delicious and complete omega + 3 plus vitamin D supplement. Great for my kids Brain development and building strong bones and teeth. This one happens to be in a fun Bubble Gum flavour too!
3. Efalex by Efamol – I actually like this one for my husband and I, rather than the kids. It’s a little bit more expensive, but well worth it! Scientific studies have actually shown “that three fatty acids found in (AA, GLA AND DHA) play a important role in the development and function of our eyes and brains. A healthy supply of these good fats can help with learning ability, concentration and co-ordination”.
4. Bio Strath – This product is another one of our favourites. A product that is 100% naturally sourced this product contains over 20 amino acids, 11 Vitamins, B Vitamins, and many other vital substances. Why we love it – increase in energy levels (including my kids), improvement in resistance to infections and concentration. This product is great for the whole family!
Thank you for letting me share a few tips I have learned to improve my own wellness. I would love to hear from you on what you do to take care of YOU!
Wife, Mom, and Founder + Creative Director of BOOMBALOO.
Photography Credit – Tess Parent Photography
