Warner Robins MOPS: We Don't Always Play Games, But When We Do...We Have FUN!

Stress was the name of the game at this meeting and man do we Moms know about stress! From sun-up to sun-down we are wanted, needed and pulled in all different directions (literally if we have more than one child). It's absolutely the toughest job in the world which is why it's neccessary to manage the stress what comes with this Mom Life. Lindsey shared a few simple tricks that will come in handy when stress lures its ugly head. Here are a few:

Time out is not just for kids. When you feel overwhelmed, frustrated or even just tired, don't feel bad to find a spot and just SIT DOWN! Heck, lay down if you have the luxury (just make sure you get back up -haha). It's important that you take at least a few minutes every day for yourself. Resting will allow you to be a better Mom, 10 minutes later when your name is yelled out, AGAIN!
Tools for stress: A) Just breathe. Breathe deeply (10 seconds) in and out/meditate. A great tip that Lindsey gave was to close your eyes and imagine being on an elevator at the top floor. Then, imagine moving slowly down, down, down, until you come to the bottom floor. It truly helps to have a visual. B.) When in doubt, dance it out! Sometimes just a minute to move and be silly with your kids is enough to eliminate stress. And it's just FUN!
Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help. When your child has thrown toys at you, told you "No!" or he/she/they just won't GO TO SLEEP, stress can loom overhead like a dark, weighted cloud. But it doesn't have to be this way. Much of the stress we have in Motherhood is our own fault. Yes, I said it. YOU have to stop stressing! If it's too much, look for ways to lessen the load by asking for help. You were not meant to do it alone. If you're married, your husband is a part of your team, ask for his help whenever possible. You've also got to surround yourself with people in the same walk of life to pull you through. Often times the only people who can really help you, no matter what you face, is someone who has been there and knows exactly how you feel. Friends in these early years are absoultely essential. Which is basically why MOPS exsists. And last but certainly, not least, God. He made you AND those little monsters that you Mother. He knows exactly what you are going through, how you feel and He even knows all the answers to help you- you just have to ask Him. Don't be afraid to admit it's too much sometimes, that you don't 100% know what you're doing or that you are just spent. Stop, lean on Him and He will carry you through the day. He promises that "all who are weary and heavy laden" will get rest, and I'm so glad!

What's the best thing to do after you talk about stress? Competetive games of course! We had a great time playing several minute-to-win-it games. Another great stress relief? Laughing, and we sure did a lot of that!

Balloon Blower