The mindfulness movement has become popular, but how can busy parents apply it to their daily lives? It’s easy to dismiss the movement as mumbo jumbo. With concepts that urge you to “focus on the present” and “live in the moment”, it can certainly seem a little hard to put into practice.
But mindfulness is not some kooky new-age trend, nor has it anything to do with religion. Simply put, it’s about being more conscious of life as it happens, says psychologist Daniel Koh from Insights Mind Centre.
“It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life,” says Sydney-based relationship mentor and intuitive coach Cimone-Louise Fung. “Being mindful gives you a chance to ‘check in’ on yourself and your feelings. Do it often enough and your daily tasks will seem less of a drudgery and a chore. You’ll feel less overwhelmed and less frustrated, and you’ll make better decisions.”
Meditation is one way to achieve mindfulness, but who’s got time to sit still in silence when there are housework and cooking to be done? The following steps will give you the same results and help you manage the stress of parenting.