Parenting is a joyride. A high-speed joyride that seems to slow down only once in a while and in the process, ends up making you feel as though you're aging a lot faster than you should be. The constant busy-ness around the children, worrying about them, making sure they ate/did their homework/bathed/dressed/went to class on time - on a daily basis can really take its toll on the way we feel...
Of course, staying healthy and feeling our best is crucial at every age. But that is easier said than done. When you notice, with surprise, a few grey hairs where you expected glossy black, you could very well find it a teeny bit depressing.
From the moment we know that we're going to become parents, there are major life changes, physical changes and for some career changes. Later, as the children grow up and leave home, that brings its own agony and the sudden realization that yes, time is indeed racing ahead!
Oh yes, parenting can make you feel old. But you really needn't get bogged down by that feeling. I remember, years ago, when I was in my 20s, my niece, who was 5, was stunned to know that I knew all the fairy tales she knew. That memory still makes me laugh.
Today I am Mom to an 18 year old, but I have to admit that during the growing years, there have been moments when I would feel old. I generally put it down to exhaustion as a result of chasing an overactive boy and answering endless questions. The back pain, the weight gain and the worrying do not help at all!
I am sure many parents feel the same way. If parenting is making you feel old, here are some great ways to feel, and stay young!
Read my post at World of Moms to learn what these tips are.
That's not all, though. There are other ways to stay young through those times and here are some ways that work for me:
Have a gratitude practiceFeeling grateful for the things you have rather than the things you don't have can change your outlook, keep you from taking things for granted and appreciate everything you have.
Express yourselfBottling in your feelings does not help as it can lead to stress. But if you don't feel like talking to someone, how about writing in a journal or a blog? It is also a great way to interact with other like-minded people.
LaughWhile we can ensure that life is good to some extent, there are things beyond our control. Why stress over them? Why not accept the fact and laugh?
Find activity you enjoyTaking on activities or hobbies you enjoy or learning something new is a great way to keep the spirit young. Just yesterday, I was talking to my friend whose daughter will soon leave for college in a different city. Rather than worry about it and wonder where the time has gone and feel old, she chose to enroll at the nearby gym to take her mind off it, while having fun in the process. Plus, physical activity can actually keep your mind clear.
Stay in touch with family and friendsThere is nothing like a strong community to make you feel young and upbeat. Spend time with those you love. Meet up for coffee or lunch or just a chat.
What are your thoughts on this? I'd love to hear your input in the comments!Writer, editor, blogger, social media enthusiast. Love DIY, Coffee, Music, Reading, Photography, Family, Friends and Life. Mantra: Happiness is a DIY Project. In my free time I play with my dust bunnies and show my diabetes who's boss. Tweet as @vidyasury