Healthy Habits: Summertime Wellness Tips for Single Moms

 

Summer is a time of joy, warmth, and sunshine, but for single moms, it can also be a period of increased demands and challenges. Balancing work, childcare, and personal time while ensuring your children have a memorable summer can be overwhelming. Trust me. I know. Been there…doing that! However, with some thoughtful planning and commitment to healthy habits, you can make this summer not only manageable but also enjoyable and rejuvenating.

Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity. It involves activities and practices that you engage in regularly to reduce stress and maintain and enhance your short- and long-term health and well-being.

Practical Self-Care Tips

Create a Morning Routine: Start your day with activities that set a positive tone. This could include a short meditation session, some light stretching or yoga, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee before the kids wake up. Establishing a calming morning routine can provide you with the mental clarity and energy needed for the day ahead. For me, it’s a cup of cappuccino and writing.

Schedule ‘Me Time’: Allocate specific times during the week for yourself. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or pursuing a hobby, having dedicated time for yourself helps in recharging and maintaining your mental health.

Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or journaling. Journaling is my favorite. These practices can help you stay present and manage stress more effectively.

Plan Activities for the Kids

Keeping Kids Engaged: Keeping your children engaged during the summer can be challenging, but with a bit of planning, you can ensure they have a fun and enriching time.

Activity Ideas

Outdoor Adventures: Plan regular trips to local parks, beaches, or nature trails. Outdoor activities are not only fun but also promote physical health and allow for quality bonding time.

Creative Projects: Set up arts and crafts sessions at home. Let your kids explore their creativity with painting, drawing, or building projects.

Educational Outings: Visit museums, zoos, or science centers. These outings can be both educational and entertaining for your children.

Sports and Games: Encourage your children to participate in sports. It could be a community sports league or just playing soccer in the backyard. Physical activity is crucial for their overall well-being.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Summer is the perfect time to focus on healthy eating, with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables available.

Incorporate Fresh Produce: Make the most of summer’s bounty by incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals. Create colorful salads, smoothies, and snacks that are both nutritious and delicious.

Stay Hydrated: Ensure that you and your children stay hydrated, especially during hot days. Infuse water with fruits like lemon, cucumber, or berries to make it more appealing.

Plan Balanced Meals: Aim to include a variety of food groups in your meals. Balance proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to ensure you and your children get all the necessary nutrients.

Healthy Snacks: Keep healthy snacks on hand, such as nuts, yogurt, and fruit. This helps in avoiding the temptation of unhealthy junk food.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine is crucial for maintaining good health. It’s also a great way to spend time with your children.

Family Workouts: Find exercises that you can do together. This could be a family yoga session, a dance-off in the living room, or a bike ride around the neighborhood.

Active Play: Encourage active play by setting up obstacle courses, playing tag, or having a water balloon fight. These activities are fun and promote physical fitness.

Fitness Apps and Videos: Utilize fitness apps or online workout videos designed for parents and kids. These resources can offer structured exercise routines that are easy to follow at home.

Create a Summer Schedule

Having a flexible but structured summer schedule can help in managing your time effectively. And, if there is one thing that I am not good with it’s staying organized and on-task without a schedule. So, create that schedule!

Weekly Planning: At the beginning of each week, plan out key activities and tasks. This includes work commitments, children’s activities, and personal time.

Visual Schedule: Create a visual schedule for your children. This helps them understand what to expect each day and can reduce the number of “What are we doing today?” questions.

Time Blocking: Use time-blocking techniques to allocate specific times for work, childcare, and self-care. This helps in ensuring that all important areas are addressed without overwhelming yourself.

Foster Social Connections

As a single mom, having a strong support network is invaluable. Social connections can provide emotional support, practical help, and a sense of community. And, if there is one thing that a single mom needs, it is a support system.

Stay Connected with Friends: Make an effort to stay connected with your friends. Arrange playdates, coffee dates, or virtual meetups. Socializing can be a great stress reliever.

Join Support Groups: Look for local or online support groups for single moms. These groups can provide a platform to share experiences, advice, and encouragement.

Engage with the Community: Participate in community events and activities. This can help in building a sense of belonging and finding new friends for both you and your children.

Make Time for Rest

Rest is crucial for your overall well-being 🙋🏽‍♀️. It allows your body to recover and your mind to rejuvenate.

And, I am guilty of not getting enough rest. You would think that during the summer when school is out I’d get more rest. But, nope! So, here are some tips:

Prioritize Sleep: Ensure that you get enough sleep each night. Create a calming bedtime routine to help you unwind and prepare for restful sleep. I like to read before bed. It helps me relax and unwind.

Take Breaks: During the day, take short breaks to rest and recharge. Even a few minutes of relaxation can make a significant difference in your energy levels.

Delegate Tasks: Don’t hesitate to ask for help or delegate tasks when needed. Whether it’s asking a family member to babysit or hiring help for household chores, sharing responsibilities can alleviate stress.

Engage in Personal Development

Personal development is important for your growth and fulfillment. It can be challenging to find time for it, but it’s worth the effort.

Pursue Hobbies: Dedicate time to hobbies and activities that you are passionate about. Whether it’s reading, gardening, or painting, engaging in what you love can bring immense joy.

Learn Something New: Take advantage of online courses or workshops to learn new skills. This could be anything from a cooking class to a professional development course.

Set Personal Goals: Set achievable personal goals for the summer. These could be related to health, career, or personal interests. Working towards these goals can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Embrace Flexibility

Flexibility is key to managing the dynamic nature of summer schedules and responsibilities.

 Be Open to Change: Understand that plans might not always go as expected. Being adaptable and open to change can help in managing stress and maintaining a positive outlook.

Simplify When Needed: Don’t overcomplicate your plans. Simplifying activities and schedules can make it easier to handle day-to-day responsibilities.

Focus on Quality Time: Rather than trying to do everything, focus on spending quality time with your children. Simple activities like having a picnic in the backyard or watching a movie together can create lasting memories.

Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude can significantly impact your mental and emotional well-being.

Daily Gratitude: Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you are grateful for. This could be as simple as appreciating a sunny day or a kind gesture from a friend. (And, don’t hesitate to grab my Daily Mediation E-book)

Gratitude Journal: Keep a gratitude journal where you write down things you are thankful for. This practice can help in fostering a positive mindset and reducing stress.

Share Gratitude: Encourage your children to practice gratitude as well. This can be a fun family activity, where each member shares something they are thankful for during dinner time.

Being a single mom during the summer comes with its own set of challenges. But, it also presents unique opportunities for growth, bonding, and enjoyment. By prioritizing self-care, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in meaningful activities, and fostering social connections, you can create a summer that is both fulfilling and fun. Remember to stay flexible, embrace gratitude, and take time for yourself. With these wellness tips, you can navigate the summer with confidence, ensuring that both you and your children have a memorable and enriching experience.

Other Articles to Read: 

11 Practical Ways to Build a Support System that Works for Homeschool Moms

https://2cuteclassroom.com/11-practical-ways-to-build-a-support-system-that-works-for-homeschool-moms/

The Best Self-Care Guide for Homeschool Moms

https://2cuteclassroom.com/the-best-self-care-guide-for-homeschool-moms/

Simple Ways for You to Improve Your Mood This Summer

 

18 Things to Help Improve Your Mood This Summer

We all experience “the blues” sometimes. Although “SAD” or Seasonal Affective Disorder is more common in the winter months, people can experience some bouts of depression during the summertime.

You may find yourself feeling out of sorts and needing to adjust your mood. Don’t fall victim to “the blues” this summer. Improve your mood and overall well-being. Here are a few suggestions on how to do just that.

Get More Sunlight

Who can beat that great summer sun? Get out and enjoy the beautiful sunshine this summer. How can sunlight improve your mood? Exposure to sunlight helps the body release serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone in the body that can help to stable your mood. It has even been shown to help you sleep better.

Depending on the month, summer can get pretty hot especially if you live in the South. However, there is a way for you to get that much needed sunshine and stay cool. Instead of go outside during the hottest time of the day, you should opt to wait for the evening time or head out in the early morning before the temperatures rise.

Drink More Water

Staying hydrated is vital during the hot, summer months. Our bodies are made up of mainly water. Water helps to keep our joints lubricated. It provides a cushion for the brain, spinal cord, and other body tissues. Staying hydrate will also help you to maintain a stable body temperature, and it will help to keep your blood pressure regulated.

So, before heading out, grab a bottle of water. Plus, consider taking your water with you. Large, plastic water containers can be taken along with you to work, on nature walks, or any other place. A lot of these containers have water levels marked on them. They can help you measure the amount of water you consume.

Go for a Walk

The flowers have bloomed, and the birds are singing. Nature can do wonders for your mood. It’s beauty has a calming effect that can’t be denied. Taking a walk out in nature, going to your local gym, or simply walking around your work space can help to relieve stress and anxiety.  It can also provide you with the opportunity to relax and reflect. Both of which can also help to improve your general well-being. So, go for that walk.

Take a Drive

If you can’t go for a walk, you can always go for a leisurely drive. Plan your drive. Don’t simply up and decide to go for a drive on the freeway in the middle of midday traffic. This drive should be on your day off and during a time when traffic is at a minimum.

If at all possible, try to make this drive out in the country where you can better enjoy the peace and serenity that nature has to offer. Be sure to put on some of your favorite music. This will help to relax you while you are driving.

Get Enough Sleep

Your brain needs sleep in order to allow its neurons to recharge and keep functioning at their best. Going without sleep for 24 hours or longer can result in behavior similar to that of being intoxicated.  Body functions become impaired. Slurred speech, lack of impulse control, poor judgment, and decreased attention are all the results of not getting enough sleep. And, just like a person who is legally drunk, you should not be behind the wheel. Your reflexes are slower.  Your coordination is off. Your vision and your judgment are impaired. All of which can lead to an accident.

Your brain must have deep sleep and not just a quick nod in order for the neurons of the cerebral cortex to recharge and keep functioning at optimal levels. The ability to recall information and retain new memories is impaired when these neuron are not allowed to repair themselves. Getting enough sleep will also help to decrease stress hormones and help you to feel more energized.

Read

Reading a book or even listening to one on tape is a great way to help you settle down and relax. Don’t try to force yourself to read something overly complicated. Pick a book that you will enjoy. Any simple, easy-to-read book will do.

Journal

Put your thoughts down on paper. Journaling is a wonderful way to relax and decompress. Your journal doesn’t have to be anything complicated. Even a simply tablet or notebook can be turned into a place to keep your ideas, thoughts, and feelings.

A gratitude journal is going to work the best. Instead of focusing on the negative things going on in your life, you can focus on the things that you are grateful for. This will help to combat negative feelings and any pinup frustrations.

Visualize

Create a relaxing image in your mind. Visualize yourself happy and fulfilled. You might even want to post pictures of things that make you happy around your desk or on your refrigerator so that you can continuously be reminded to stay calm and to be happy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWp13iFjmcU&t=123s

Think Positive

Kick those negative thoughts to the curb. Refuse to think on the negative things. Think on the positive. This can sometimes be easier said than done. However, you can do it. But, you will have to make a conscious effort to focus on the things that are going right instead of the things that are going wrong. The gratitude journal can help you do this. Start each day by thinking about the things that you are thankful for. Think about the things that make you happy or give you joy. Try to see each obstacle or disappointment that you face as a nudge toward your destiny. Know that no matter what happens, it is all working for your good.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvmZDYeIu38&t=105s

Vacation

Grab your bags and go on vacation. Your vacation doesn’t have to be anything extraordinary. Any overnight trip away from home can be turned into a vacation.

You may even decide to take a staycation and visit some sites in your local areas. If you can’t take an actual vacation and get away from the house, consider renting a hotel room for the night. You’ll be amazed at how much better you will feel by just leaving home.

Reconnect with Old Friends

Now is a good time to reach out to some old friends. Reconnect. Work on repairing any problems that caused the rift. Prioritize your friendships. Make it a point to spend more time with your friends.

Go to the Movies

Summer and movies go hand in hand. Take a trip to the theater or set up a projector in your own home. Watch a movie that you’ve been dying to see. You can make this a family outing, or you can be a “lone ranger.” And, don’t forget to grab a bag of popcorn!

Hobbies

Make time for your hobbies. Do the things that make you happy. Summer hobbies can include gardening, quilting, collecting seashells, and dancing. It does not matter if this is a new hobby or an old one, just get into the swing of things.  

Take a Course

Learn something new. Consider taking a course over the break. And, this course doesn’t have to be something hard or difficult. This should be relaxing, so pick something that will bring you happiness.

Classes can be taken in person or online. The advantage of an online course is the fact that it can be completed from almost anywhere that has an internet connection.

Decrease Sugar Consumption

Sugar is not only addictive. It can contribute to weight gain. Plus, getting too much of it can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and even put you at risk for developing mood disorders. Instead of reaching for the sugar, try eating more fresh or dry fruits.

https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-to-know-about-sugar-and-depression

Stop drinking so many sodas. Studies have shown that consuming just one can soda a day can led to a 20 pound weight gain in one year.

Sodas also contain caffeine. Caffeine is a diuretic, and it can lead to dehydration. Instead of the reaching for that can of soda drink, water or natural fruit juice. They will help to keep you hydrated. Plus, they don’t have the additional sugar that sodas have.

Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables

Eat healthy. Summer is the perfect time to load up on fruits and vegetables. Most vegetables are high in fiber. Fiber helps to keep things moving through your digestive system. It also helps your body remove those toxics, and it helps to stabilize your weight. So, load up on those fruits and vegetables. You can even dabble in growing your own during this warm weather season.

Set the Mood

Get in a relaxing state of mind. You can use candles, soft music, and aroma therapy to help you relax. House plants and neutral tones can also be used to bring your mind into a calm space. Be sure to remove any noise, clutter, or other distractions.

Create a routine for relaxing. Choose a designated place to relax and a set time for relaxation. This will help to program your body to wind down.

Forgive

If you are holding any grudges or other negative feelings, release them. Unforgiveness can ruin your overall health. You may be holding on to some unresolved resentment and bitterness. Unforgiveness can lead to migraine headaches, upset stomach, anxiety, and indigestion. If you want to feel better, then you will need to forgive.

Forgive the people who have wronged you. Open your heart and mind to new beginnings. Move forward.

Improve the way you feel this summer and throughout the year. Make a few adjustments to your behavior and boost your mood. These adjustments can include change your diet from one filled with sugar and processed foods to a healthier one. Get some sun and some exercise. This will help release those feel-good hormones. Put down the soda and reach for the water instead. This will help to keep you hydrated and flush the toxins from your body. Take up a hobby or resume an old one. Reconnect with old friends. Make relationships a priority and set the mood for relaxation.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Information give is advice from my own personal experience. For any serious medical advice

 

Fun Journal Topics for High School Students

 

Summer is finally here, and most students cherish this time away from teachers. However, parents and educators often worry that their children will lose valuable skills over the summer. Whether you are an educator or a concerned parent, you can help your high school student keep up their writing skills during the summer. One of the best ways to do this is through assigning journal writing. The following are great summer journal topics:

Identity issues

Teenager often struggle with their identity. This can open up a whole new world of ideas for writing topic. Some ideas include:

Things I have done to try to fit in…

What are the things about myself I would like to change and why?

The things that I love about myself are…

If I could switch places with one of my friends, who would it be and why?

Peer pressure

Peer pressure is another issue that high school students deal with on a regular basis. Journal topics about peer pressure can include:

Have you ever felt pressured by your friends to do something you knew was wrong?

In what ways do your friends influence you?

What strategies do you use to stay true to yourself?

Dating

Many high school students have begun dating. Topics that deal with dating are interesting, and high school students may actually enjoy writing about these topics:

What was your favorite date? Why?

What is your favorite dating spot? Why

If you could go on a date with anyone, who would it be and why?

What are some dating safety tips that you would give to a younger student?

Opinions

High school students are also very opinionated. Allow them to voice their opinion with some of their journal topics.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?

What classes should be added to your school’s curriculum?

If you could be principal for a day, what changes would you make? Why?

What was your favorite movie this summer? Why? Be sure to include details about the plot and actors.

Sports

Summer sports offer a means of entertainment. They also offer some great journal topics.

What is your favorite summer sport? Why?

Who is your favorite athlete? Why?

If you could give any pro-sport star some advice, who would it be and why?

Environment

Summertime is a great time for getting back to nature. Encourage your high school student to think about the environment this summer. The following are journal topics that are nature based.

Why is it important to recycle?

Which common items in your home can you recycle?
How can you get your family involved in preserving the environment?

What can you do to get your community or your school involved in preserving the environment?

What are some ways to keep your house cool and save energy at the same time?

What simple lifestyle changes can you make to help conserve electricity?

Summertime

Let summer be the inspiration for many of the journal topics that you assign. Some examples of these are:

What is your favorite summer memory? Why?

What are some great ways to stay cool?

What is your favorite summer flower?

What are the best songs to listen to for summer?

Just because it is summertime, it doesn’t mean that learning has to stop. Writing assignments can help your high school student stay focus on learning. The summer journal topics listed above are both educational and fun.