As a busy mum, finding time for yourself can be a challenge. However, incorporating yoga into your routine can help you feel more centered, focused, and energized.
It’s funny how I used to say I didn’t have time for yoga and yet when I managed to fit in yoga it felt like I had more time. I think the stress of not having time was worse than actually not making the time to look after myself because afterwards I felt calmer and time didn’t seem such an issue. I know this isn’t the same for everyone thought so let me help with ways to fit in some yoga time.
Here are three ways you can make time for yoga as a busy mom:
1
Wake up a few minutes earlier: Waking up just 10-15 minutes earlier than usual can give you enough time to fit in a quick yoga practice before the rest of your day begins. This can help you start your day on a positive note and set the tone for the rest of the day. Even a short yoga practice that is only 5 minutes long can help you feel more centered and focused, and you can gradually increase the duration of your practice as you get into the habit.
Now I know mornings are not great for everyone (this is me). So instead I make time in the evening before I go to bed. Even if that means I am going to bed 10 minutes later than I had planned. Because I know I will feel so much better for doing a quick 5 minute practice than nothing at all.
2
Is your child young? Practice during naptime: If your child takes naps during the day, use that time to fit in a yoga practice. You can either practice alongside your child, or take advantage of the quiet time to practice in a separate room. This can be a great way to get some exercise and relaxation in without disrupting your daily routine. Yes I know there are household chores but your mental health is more important!
If your children are older than look at your schedule and see when you can fit in some, again it only has to be 5 minutes at a time. This could look like
- when they are in the bath (as long as they are safe and old enough to look after themselves)
- after the school run
- before the afternoon school run
- right after they go to bed
It is ok to practice with them around, teaching them that you need some self-care time is a great way for them to start respecting your boundaries and teaches them it’s ok to have time to yourself. You never know, they may be telling you they need time to themselves as well and hey that’s extra yoga time.
3
Practice with your child: If finding childcare is difficult, try incorporating your child into your yoga practice. Many yoga poses can be modified to include your child, making it a fun and interactive activity for both of you. This can also be a great way to bond with your child while also taking care of your own health and well-being.
This one will only work or certain parents and it definitely hasn’t worked for me as I get trampled and then one of us get’s hurt. However I am lucky enough to have a partner that I can ask to keep her occupied so I can get my yoga done. Maybe you have a friend or family member that can help, if not there’s always kids tube or Netflix for 15 minutes.
I can give so many more tips but I wanted to make this post short and sweet as I know your time is precious. If you would like more tips and advice check out my YouTube channel because I am always uploading videos on parenting and yoga to help overwhelmed mums find some relaxation and time to themselves.
Remember to be flexible and kind to yourself. Even if you can only fit in a few minutes of yoga here and there, it’s better than not practicing at all. Consistency is key, so try to make yoga a regular part of your routine, even if it’s just a few minutes a day.
As a busy mm, finding time for yoga can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By waking up a few minutes earlier, practicing during naptime, or practicing with your child, you can make time for yoga and reap the benefits of a regular yoga practice. Remember, even a few minutes of yoga each day can make a big difference in your physical, mental, and emotional health.
Start your yoga journey today and come and start making yoga a habit with my 28 day yoga habit guide. 28 yoga classes that are only 5 minutes long so nice and easy to fit in. Make it a habit and it will start coming easier.