Busy Moms' Guide: Finding Calm During the First Month of School with Yoga and Mindfulness

Starting the school year and getting caught up in the busyness of daily life can make it hard to find moments of peace. As a mother of four kids of different ages, I understand the struggle of managing multiple schedules and handling many tasks. After trying different approaches, I've found that integrating yoga and mindfulness into my routine has made a significant difference. I want to share how these practices can help you stay calm and joyful during the first month of school, based on what has worked for me.

1. Embrace the Power of Breath

Breathing is a fundamental yet often overlooked tool for managing stress. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a few moments to pause and practice mindful breathing. Find a quiet corner, close your eyes, and take a deep breath in through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand fully. Then exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing tension. Practicing mindful breathing for just a few minutes a day can help center your mind and calm your nervous system.

2. Start Your Day with Yoga

Incorporating yoga into your morning routine can improve your flexibility, reduce stress, and create a sense of balance before the day gets busy. You don’t need a lot of time—just 5-15 minutes of gentle yoga can work wonders. Focus on poses that help ground and energize you, such as Child’s Pose, Downward Dog, and Warrior II.

3. Find Joy in the Mundane

I love transforming my daily chores into enjoyable moments by creating small rituals. For example, I play my favorite playlist while cleaning the kitchen or doing laundry. Music has a powerful effect on my mood and can make routine tasks feel less tedious. Singing along or dancing while I clean can transform a mundane task into a mini celebration.

4. Set Intentions and Reflect

Every day, start by setting a positive intention for yourself. It could be something as simple as "I will approach today with patience" or "I will find moments of joy in the chaos." In the evening, take a few minutes to reflect on how your day went. You can journal about your experiences, noting what went well and how you felt. This practice of setting intentions and reflecting helps you stay mindful of your goals and progress.

5. Treat Yourself

Self-care is essential, even when you're short on time. Look for small ways to take care of yourself throughout the day. You can order your favorite meal through Uber Eats and enjoy a dish that you didn't have to prepare yourself. Alternatively, take a brief walk around the neighborhood to get some fresh air and a change of scenery, which can be surprisingly refreshing. Journaling is also a great option; you can write down your thoughts, express gratitude, or simply document the highlights of your day. It's a wonderful way to clear your mind and reflect on positive moments.

6. Set Realistic Expectations

It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to do everything perfectly. Instead, set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. It’s okay if not every task is completed to perfection. Focus on what truly matters and let go of the less important details. Embrace the chaos with a sense of humor and remember that it's perfectly fine to ask for help when you need it.

7.  Create a Relaxing Evening Routine

End your day with a calming routine to help you unwind and prepare for restful sleep. Consider incorporating 3-4 yin or restorative yoga poses followed by a few minutes of breathwork, or a warm bath into your evening ritual. I love ending my day with a relaxing face mask—it always helps me feel rejuvenated and ready for a good night's sleep. Creating a peaceful environment before bed can improve your sleep quality and help you feel more refreshed and centered the next day.

8. Practice Mini-Meditations Throughout Your Day

Regular, short meditations can help maintain a sense of grounding and clarity throughout the day. These mini-meditations can be as short as 1-5 minutes and can be done during or between any daily tasks. To start, sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath or a simple mantra like OM (Universal Sound Mantra) or YAM (Heart Chakra Mantra). Allow yourself to let go of any tension or stress.

9. Practice Gratitude

Embody gratitude into your daily routine to shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life. Take a moment each day to list a few things you’re grateful for, whether they’re big or small. This practice can help enhance your overall mood and perspective, making it easier to handle the stresses of a busy schedule with a positive mindset.

10. Connect with Others

Remember to build a support network. Connect with other moms and join a local parenting group. Connecting with others who understand what you're going through can be a great way to find support and share practical tips for managing the demands of a busy schedule.

Final Thoughts 

The first month of school is a transition period filled with new routines and responsibilities. While it may seem overwhelming at times, remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it's a necessity. By incorporating simple practices like deep breathing, yoga, and finding joy in the mundane, you can create pockets of calm in your busy life. Treat yourself with kindness, set realistic goals, and lean on your support network. Embrace the chaos with a calm heart and a sense of humor, and you'll navigate this back-to-school season with grace and resilience.

Stay mindful and take it one day at a time. You’ve got this!

Namaste,

Skye