“What are you all up to this morning?” my father inquired.
“I took the kids for a stroll.”
“That’s wild, but good for you. I mean, it’s freezing out there.”
This winter has been long and arduous for us mothers. For those of us who faced challenges even before the pandemic, we’ve found ourselves struggling even more now. The lack of mental, physical, or emotional support leaves many of us feeling like we’re sinking.
With COVID restrictions and snow-covered playgrounds, finding activities for our kids has become increasingly difficult. Moms like me are feeling the weight of this; we spend our days cooped up indoors, managing diaper changes, snack clean-ups, and endless laundry. The monotony drags on, with no breaks from the routine of music classes or gym sessions where we can connect with others.
So, every day that isn’t plagued by a severe winter storm, I bundle my kids up—mittens, coats, hats—and we head outside. We take walks. I carry the baby in a front carrier while pushing my two daughters in a stroller. Without fail, every passerby remarks, “You’ve got your hands full!” And yes, I probably do resemble that mom you’d describe to your friends.
But you see, I embrace being “that outdoorsy mom” because the alternative—being stuck inside—is far more challenging. Trust me. The mom who’s trapped indoors all day grapples with her mental health. She tidies up as her kids make even more messes, and her anxiety escalates with every task she hasn’t completed. Time drags as her patience wears thin, leading her to question her capabilities as a mother. She spirals downward.
Stepping outside, however, even for a short walk, revitalizes her spirit. The fresh air and nature work wonders, alleviating stress, depression, and anxiety. It helps her feel alive once more.
So, I’ll continue being “that mom” for the next few weeks—the one with her hands overflowing. Because carrying the weight of it all is a lot, and I need those moments outdoors to keep from breaking down.
For more insights on navigating motherhood, check out one of our other blog posts here. Also, if you’re interested in learning about home insemination, Make a Mom is a great resource. For further information on intrauterine insemination, visit Cleveland Clinic.
Here are some related queries you might find helpful:
- What is home insemination?
- How to prepare for self insemination?
- Benefits of using an artificial insemination kit
- Tips for successful home insemination
- Understanding intrauterine insemination procedures
In summary, as a mom navigating the challenges of winter and motherhood, getting outside has been crucial for my mental health. Embracing those moments in nature allows me to recharge and handle the demands of parenting.