3 Things To Help Parents Manage Stressful Times
Hi beautiful people, how are you all doing?
Pandemic uncertainty seems to be in full swing in Hong Kong. Stressful times ebb and flow depending on where you are in the world. I’ve had my moments of feeling anxious about what’s been happening here, and how long this will all last. I definitely tossed and turned last night. Peaceful sleep was nowhere to be found. Blah!
Children will have their share of stresses and worries, too. With schools closed here, maybe they’ll miss school, and seeing their friends, and teachers. (Ori misses the playground and keeps repeating in a forlorn voice, “Playground closed. Sad.”)
Queer Eye (especially Season 6) has brought me so much joy these past weeks it seemed fitting to be part of this post.
They’ll also pick up on our stress, which may make them feel more frightened and insecure. The other morning I was feeling particularly anxious, and my son kept asking for papa and wanting to hang out with him instead. (I was too stressy to be offended.) I prioritise managing my stress knowing that it not only affects Ori, but the people around me.
These are the things I’ve been turning to to regain my sanity when I go down one of those sneaky news spirals. Limiting news time aside, I turn to these tricks:
3 Things To Help Parents Manage Stressful Times
CONNECT
I’ve been reaching out to friends all over the world. Even just having a little WhatsApp chat helps. Also, having a few close friends (the ultimate empathy buddies) listen to me untangle (even if its via voice notes) can help so, so much.
SOLO TIME
Schedule alone time for yourself, even if it’s just in another room in your home. I use this time to write, journal, catch up on messages do yoga, or go for a run.
RELAX
What activities lighten your mood?
For me it’s been chatting to my partner with a hot cup of rooibos after Ori is asleep is one. Other activities I’ve been partaking in: Yoga With Adriene (she has a new 30-day yoga series called Move), taking a hot bath with essential oils while listening to music, reading a gorgeous book like Jonathan Van Ness’ “Over The Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love”, watching Season 6 of Queer Eye, or having a good cry (which has happened many times while watching aforementioned show).
Just making the effort to do these things are enough to make me feel human again. And morph back into someone that Ori has no objections hanging out with.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or panicked, I use the head holding and breathing technique below to calm my heart and mind from racing. Then I make an appointment for some kinesiology, cranio or bodywork.
Support is your birthright, you don’t have to do it alone.
Much love,
Lia
I’m here to support your well-being and the parent you would like to be. I do that with Aware Parenting consultations, ongoing parenting support and kinesiology.