As we prepare for the kids to go back to school, it's a whirlwind of emotions and logistics for parents. From lazy summer days to the impending structure of the school year, there's a lot to navigate. This week I explore the highs and lows of transitioning from a carefree summer to a more structured routine.

In this episode, I delve into strategies to ease the back-to-school chaos. I discuss meal planning and how to ensure your kids have nourishing breakfasts and satisfying after-school snacks. Plus, I share tips on simplifying dinner preparations with batch cooking and online grocery shopping.

Managing morning and bedtime routines is another crucial aspect we explore. Discover how organizing school uniforms and PJs can streamline the daily grind. We'll also touch on screen time and bedtime routines, finding the right balance between relaxation and preparation.

Lastly, we discuss the importance of getting organized with calendars and scheduling. Learn how to keep track of everyone's activities, from school events to family gatherings, and explore both analog and digital tools to help you stay on top of your busy life.

Let's embrace the changing seasons and find joy in simplifying our lives. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting this journey, these strategies might just help make your school year a little smoother. 

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In this episode I discuss the gap between the expectations and realities of motherhood. I  emphasise the importance of finding our own values, needs, and dreams in order to live a fulfilling life as a mother.  I share moments from my personal experience of my pregnancy and birth journey, highlighting how societal conditioning often leads to unrealistic expectations. I discuss the need for mothers to acknowledge their true feelings and realities, rather than conforming to an idealised image of motherhood. I encourage you to identify your core values, needs, and aspirations and by aligning your life with these, you can create a more authentic and satisfying motherhood experience.

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In this episode we explore the "mental load" of motherhood. I delve into the challenges faced by mothers who juggle various responsibilities and tasks.  I discuss the unrealistic expectations placed on mothers to be "Supermums," leading to feelings of failure, burnout, and exhaustion. I explore the origins of the mental load, citing modern advantages alongside disadvantages like isolation due to extended family distances and lack of affordable childcare options. The societal shift towards later parenthood and diminishing support from older generations further compounds the mental load. I discuss the historical role of women in adapting to societal demands and the importance of trusting partners and sharing responsibilities. I provide practical strategies to communicate and divide household tasks with partners, emphasizing that change takes time and effort. I will then be encouraging you to reframe guilt, involve children in tasks, and support one another in navigating the complex landscape of a motherhood's mental load.

Here are the highlights:

(1:19) What is the mental load? 
(5:00) Women are the family support system
(08:33) Barrier to asking for help 
(10:03) The illusion of supermum
(14:09) The mental load mantra
(17:12) Reframing guilt around delegating

The Mental Load Mantra

I trust myself
I trust my partner
I will allow them the chance to learn this information
I will allow them the chance to help me carry this
I do not need to carry this alone
We can share it

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The episode has a focus on how feeling good is linked to looking good, not in a superficial sense, but in terms of recognising and being comfortable with one's true self. 

Throughout the episode there are practical insights and tips to help mothers reconnect with themselves and cultivate a positive self-image. The discussion touches on various aspects of self-care, including skincare, haircare, makeup, and clothing choices. The discussion talks about the importance of establishing simple self-care routines that contribute to daily well-being. This can involve practices like maintaining a basic skincare routine, exploring different haircare options, and using makeup to enhance one's features in a way that feels authentic.

The conversation then shifts to the significance of wardrobe choices and how they can impact one's mood and confidence. Suggesting a simple method of decluttering the closet, removing items that no longer fit or evoke negative emotions, and making space for clothes that align with the current self-image. This process is presented as a way to let go of the past and embrace the present version of oneself.

The episode also touches on the role of nutrition and hydration in enhancing energy levels and overall mood. Talks about the importance of balanced eating, incorporating colourful fruits and vegetables, and staying hydrated. The discussion encourages listeners to prioritize nourishing their bodies without resorting to strict diets or extreme measures.

One of the key themes of the episode is self-acceptance. Acknowledging the challenges of adjusting to post-pregnancy body changes and the need to accept and love oneself as they are now. The episode encourages listeners to focus on their individual strengths, achievements, and the incredible journey of motherhood. Explaining to mothers that they are more than their physical appearance and that their worth is not determined by how they look.

Throughout the episode, shared personal anecdotes and experiences  create a relatable and supportive atmosphere. Listeners are reminded that self-care is a gradual process and that small steps toward self-acceptance can lead to significant positive changes in their overall well-being. The episode concludes with a message of empowerment, urging mothers to celebrate their unique identities and embrace the new version of themselves that motherhood has created.

Here are the highlights:

(1:07) Embracing Your Identity 
(6:44) Significance of self care rituals
(13:02) Wardrobe makeover
(19:20) Nutrition and hydration 
(26:17) Accepting your new body
(29:20) Positive affirmations

Lynne Meek -Stylist and link to online shop

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In this week's episode, we're diving into the topic of energizing ourselves to boost our overall well-being. As mums, we often neglect our own energy and with the focus on our children it can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. But it's time to prioritise ourselves and recharge in ways that resonate with us.

This episode delves into five different ways to help mums energise themselves. First, we look at the power of physical activity to wake up our energy, boost our mood, and lift our spirits. Whether it's dancing around in the kitchen with the kids or engaging in a spin class, I will be encouraging you to find movement that brings you joy.

Next, I explore how intellectual activities can be fulfilling and energising. Engaging in reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills, or joining a book club not only stimulates our minds but also adds a social aspect that fosters joy and connection.

The third technique is mindfulness and meditation. By being present in the moment, we can calm our nervous system, lower stress hormones, and improve emotional regulation. Talking about simple tips to incorporate mindfulness into our daily lives, and she explains how meditation can be a powerful tool for relaxation and improved mental clarity.

Breathing techniques take centre stage in the fourth segment of the episode. We will talk about the importance of deep intentional breaths to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts stress and helps us relax. By breathing consciously, we increase oxygen flow in our bodies, leading to improved energy levels and mental alertness.

Lastly, I will let you know about the benefits of journaling as a tool to release stress and worries. Writing down our thoughts and feelings can help us identify and process emotions, leading to greater clarity and mental freedom. I encourage you to practice gratitude and set short and long-term goals through journaling, fostering a positive outlook and motivation.

Join me on this journey to energise yourself, your way, and discover how these simple yet powerful techniques can elevate your energy levels, improve your mood, and enhance your overall well-being.

Here are the highlights:

(1:33) Physical activity and movement
(6:24) Benefits of intellectual stimulation
(09:14) Focusing on the present moment
(14:50) Breathing exercise
(15:50) Journaling as a tool
(20:18) Setting intentions and goals

Aqua Jade Fitness 

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In this episode, we explore the importance of carving out "me time" and how to integrate it into your daily and weekly routine. While prioritizing self-care is crucial, knowing how to find and make time for yourself is equally important to ensure it becomes a sustainable practice. Amanda shares five practical tips to help you achieve this magic "me time" for yourself.

1. Block It In Your Calendar: Treat your self-care time like an important appointment that you cannot cancel or miss. Look for time slots in your calendar where you can dedicate time to yourself without distractions.
2. Prioritize It: Think of yourself as the boss of your life and make the decision to allocate time for your self-care. Prioritize this time as an essential part of your week that you won't compromise on.
3. Hold Yourself Accountable: Commit to joining others in activities or groups that interest you. This will motivate you to stick to your self-care schedule and enjoy the benefits of sharing your passions with like-minded individuals.
4. Block Out Distractions: Create a calm and peaceful space for yourself amidst the chaos of daily life. Limit mindless scrolling on your phone and engage in activities that nourish your well-being.
5. Break It Down: Start with small, achievable time targets for self-care. Instead of trying to find an hour every day, aim for 5-10 minutes throughout the week. These little wins will build momentum, making it easier to add more self-care time in the future.

Remember, making changes and establishing new habits can be challenging, so be kind to yourself and celebrate even the smallest steps towards self-care. With consistency and motivation, you'll find more joy and balance in your life. Prioritize yourself and embrace the benefits of "me time" for your overall well-being.

Takeaways:

• Block dedicated self-care time in your calendar.
• Prioritize yourself and make self-care non-negotiable.
• Join groups or activities that align with your interests.
• Create a calm space for mindful moments without distractions.
• Start with small time targets and gradually build up your self-care routine.

Embrace the journey of self-discovery and self-nurturing as you begin to make time for yourself amidst the demands of motherhood and daily responsibilities. Remember that every step counts, and you are enough.

Here are the highlights:

(1:52) Scheduling your time 
(7:20) Block out distractions
(11:03) Time for you
(13:14) Breaking up time 
(17:00) Small goals

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This episode delves into the importance of having time for self-care and why self care is important. In a world that often expects moms to be endlessly giving, Amanda challenges the notion that self-care is selfish, highlighting its significance in maintaining physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Discover the top five reasons why self-care is crucial for moms. From recharging ourselves to reducing stress levels, finding our own identity, modeling healthy behaviors for our children, and fostering self-renewal and joy in our lives. Through relatable anecdotes and insightful tips, Amanda reminds us that we deserve to prioritize ourselves and lead fulfilling lives while raising happy and healthy children.

In this episode, Amanda encourages listeners to explore new hobbies and interests, offering simple ways to integrate self-care into busy mom lives. She emphasizes the power of affirmations and mantras in promoting positive self-talk and self-compassion. By modeling healthy behaviors and showing our children that it's okay to ask for help, we pave the way for them to embrace self-care and self-identity in their own lives.

Here are the highlights:

(2:01) Role models
(6:34) The power of journaling
(10:17) The star of your own life
(13:31) Healthy behaviours
(18:19) Recharge your batteries

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Welcome to this podcast with me, Amanda Forsey. I'm a busy mother of four children under the age of seven, including two who are autistic. I'm also a wife, a proud dog mom, and now a podcaster!

This podcast provides a space for mothers like myself, who are constantly tired and overwhelmed by the demands of caring for others. We understand the struggle that accompanies the everyday tasks, which can easily lead to burnout.

But here's the good news: it doesn't have to be that way! 

Join me every week as we explore the everyday issues that affect us and prevent us from living the lives we truly desire. Together, we'll delve into our passions, values, and dreams, taking small steps to cope with the madness, enjoy the precious moments, and find fulfilment within ourselves!

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