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My twin daughters are in a kickboxing class at the local community college and this video was assigned to them as homework. It struck me as so simple that it is well worth the couple of minutes to review information we likely are already aware of but need continual reminders about. Moms, this is what we do -- we are the reminders, the repeaters, the consistent, kind, and friendly reviewers and encouragers!
From the YouTube Description: Wellness means overall well-being. It includes the emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual aspects of a person’s life. Incorporating aspects of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness, such as choosing healthy foods, forming strong relationships, and exercising often, into everyday habits can help people live longer and improve quality of life. The Eight Dimensions of Wellness may also help people better manage their condition and experience recovery. This short animated video explores the Eight Dimensions of Wellness and helps people understand the practical strategies and ways they can begin developing healthy habits that can have a positive impact on their physical and mental health. To learn more about SAMHSA’s Wellness Initiative, click here.
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 Photo Credit: Caroline Veronez on Unsplash.com The Mom in the Mirror
When you get what you want in your struggle for self And the world makes you queen for a day, Just go to the mirror and look at yourself And see what *that* mom has to say. For it isn’t your facebook or instagram likes Whose judgement upon you must pass. The woman whose verdict counts most in your life Is the one staring back from the glass. Some people may see all your beautiful posts And think you’re free from all wrongs. But the mom in the glass knows about the burnt toast, And the flats and the sharps in your songs. She’s the woman to please - never mind all the rest, For she’s with you (and your kids) to the end. And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test If the mom in the glass is your friend. You don’t need to convince the whole instagram crowd That they’ll never know anyone dearer. Adore your imperfect self and be proud To love that real mom in the mirror. For when you accept that perfection you lack And pursue simple progress instead, You offer yourself the best kind of feedback And happier feelings are spread. Other moms need to know that your struggles are real And how optimism can play A critical role in how you manage and deal With life’s topsy turvy melee. No need to complain, no need to hold back Let authenticity be your goal And the mom in the mirror will share her life hack: “Be true to the mom in your soul!” Written by Dr. LaReina Hingson, Momivate Director of Relationship Dynamics  Photo Credit: Briana Tozour on Unsplash.com Being a mother means most of your social circle is already established--you spend time and energy on your children, family members, and people in your circle that you already know. However, social distancing restrictions during COVID reminded us that meeting and interacting with *new* people breathes life into our world, whether it’s the cashier at the market or another mom at your kids’ school. This post offers some ideas about how to increase your sphere of friendship, whether because you need a friend or someone out there needs you! Adding friendship to our world is always a good thing. Seize the day Often, making friends is as simple as putting yourself out there. Likely, you interact with people all day long; taking the time to talk to them as a person, even for as little as a single minute, can open the door to the possibility of creating new and meaningful friendships. A friendship you create of a minute is a friendship, even if it doesn’t last beyond that; it brings life to your day-to-day routine. Try asking someone you don’t know one of the following questions:
Apps aren’t just for dating Maybe your current stage of motherhood means you’re not leaving your house very often -- have no fear! Many apps that are traditionally for dating have expanded their services to a “just looking for friends” option. Some benefits of using an app to find friends include:
If this might be for you, be sure to check which apps have friend options and that your spouse (if you have one) is aware of your intentions with the app! Service can help you find friends!
Service is touted as one of the best places to meet and make new friendships. Bonus: you know your time is being spent productively, so there’s a built-in useful aspect to your time whether long term friendships result or not. Doing service while meeting others can take the pressure off the interaction as well. For those who aren’t strong social butterflies, this division of mental focus can actually improve your conversation with others by allowing you to relax and giving you a built-in topic. Additionally, you generally get to choose what service you want to give, so chances are higher that the people you serve and serve with have similarities to your own values and interests. Since COVID, nursing homes and other activities have increased their virtual service options, which means the mother with limited time can pursue opportunities to serve without factoring in the travel time. Look for virtual service options by contacting your local nursing homes, schools for tutoring programs, or by logging on to justserve.org. Here at Momivate, a non-profit, we have a few opportunities to serve listed here! Moms, there's no need to be lonely! Reach out! Your efforts to befriend someone will not only bless your life but also the person whose friend you become. Plus, your children will benefit from watching your friendship-making situations!! |
