Unless you’re one of those “MEternity” enthusiasts who believes parenthood is a perfect time for self-discovery, you’ve probably realized that motherhood is the antithesis of tranquility. You’ve accepted that a soul-searching trip is unlikely while you’re busy with diaper changes and Lego clean-ups. But fear not! There are ways to find your Zen amidst the chaos.
Signs You Might Need Grounding
Let’s take a moment to identify some clear signs that you might be in desperate need of a bit of grounding:
- Your fantasies of cycling through Bali are interrupted by a toddler using your leg as a ramp for their zebra scooter.
- You yearn for a breathtaking view, yet the only thing you’re left to admire today is the adult-sized poop your three-year-old just dropped.
- You crave a culinary journey through Italy, but after hours of watching cooking shows, you’ve made nothing and can’t even button your pants.
- Every time you hear that one toy play its annoyingly catchy tune, you envision launching it out the window with a box of pasta.
- Your self-care routine has gone so far off track that you could weave a yoga mat from your chin hairs (but hey, it’s all-natural!).
Reality can be jarring. You’ve read the parenting books and should have it all figured out by now, right? You envisioned rocking your little ones to sleep, singing lullabies, and then meditating into a state of enlightenment. You thought you’d practice yoga during nap time.
But nobody prepared you for the chaotic whirlwind that comes with parenting, the bouts of frustration that unexpectedly bubble up, and how impossible it is to meditate when your mind is flooded with a to-do list and a baby monitor buzzing in your ear.
Embracing Your Inner ‘Eat, Pray, Love’
Welcome to the chaotic yet rewarding side of motherhood. Here are some tips on how to embrace your inner ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ even when you can barely manage the basics of life:
Don’t resist tantrums.
When your toddler is throwing a fit over the wrong Band-Aid, try to accept the moment instead of fighting it. Let the frustration wash over you without getting overwhelmed. Remember, it’s hard to meditate with a tantruming toddler, so take a deep breath and let it flow.
Be accepting of reality.
So you lost your cool and put your head through a wall. It happens! Use this as a chance to treat yourself with kindness and focus on the little moments. Gently pull back and watch the wall crumble to the ground like glittering snowflakes. Inner peace starts with acceptance, so let’s begin here.
Connect with others.
When the phone rings — spoiler alert, it’s not Oprah — it’s Grandma calling during nap time, and she can’t hear you. Do you answer and wake the kids, or let it go to voicemail and deal with the guilt later? Remember, it’s not a competition. Everyone is navigating this beautifully chaotic journey together. (And Grandma loves you no matter what.)
Don’t indulge.
If it’s 3 p.m. and you haven’t eaten, remember that some spiritual seekers fast for days. Buddha said, “Life is suffering,” not “Life is a buffet with endless pasta.” Keep some perspective on your cravings.
Use water therapy.
Bath time can be a mini spa moment, even if it’s more like a mini tidal wave. Fill the tub just enough to wash up while visualizing the water as ocean waves. This can help calm your mind and prepare you for the next challenge: is it more important to get your toddler to the toilet or stop your infant from chewing on a flip-flop? (A little dirt never hurt anyone!)
Don’t fret about the future.
You might not have time for a palm reader today, but trust in some simple truths: you’ll change many diapers, you’ll face expenses, and someone will surely have an accident on the rug. As they say, “Love thrives in homes where family members feel comfortable enough to be a little messy.”
Celebrate small victories.
Struggling to focus on meditation while swatting mosquitoes? It’s okay! Have you ever tried to save a preschool’s contact information with a wriggling baby and a toddler clinging to your leg? If you have, then you’ve earned a moment of self-congratulation.
Count your blessings.
At the end of the day, you have wonderful, loving little beings who are fast asleep. Your journey may not have been a picturesque self-discovery trip, but you’ve unearthed strength, courage, love, patience, hope, faith, and truth. Remember, you’re in charge of your destiny, and that’s something to celebrate.
So, enjoy your evening, embrace the chaos, and wait… was that the baby monitor? Oh no!
Summary
In the whirlwind of motherhood, finding moments of peace and self-discovery can feel impossible. However, by accepting the chaos, connecting with others, and celebrating small victories, you can channel your inner ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ spirit amidst the daily challenges of parenting. Embrace the mess and count your blessings because they’re worth it.