Guilt Free Mum - Zeena Moolla Book Review


In this day and age where the demands of motherhood often feel like it's just too much, where self care, and the importance of YOU is just put on the back burner - Zeena Moolla's new book 'Guilt Free Mum - How To Be Kind To Your Mind' is a guiding light, advocating maternal mental health. 

As a devoted advocate for maternal wellbeing I eagerly delved into this wonderful book, seeking insights to support new mothers on their journey of self love, self compassion and mental balance. With practical advice, mindfulness techniques and empathetic discussions, this wonderful book becomes a safe space for mums to nurture their mental health.

Guilt Free Mum is more than just your average self help book, it's a warm, comforting hug from a friend. It's a shoulder to lean on, a nudge in the right direction - helping you to navigate the pressures of daily life, the overwhelming emotions us mums feel far too regularly. Her compassionate approach reminds us all that self care isn't, and is never, selfish but an important act of self love. She unravels the multitude of 'mum guilt' that we often feel, breaks down the unrealistic expectations society has on us mothers, liberating the burden of perfection. From embracing imperfections to creating a nurturing environment of self acceptance!

Guilt Free Mum - Zeena Moolla Book Review

Guilt Free Mum uses mindfulness practices and behaviour techniques to create a toolkit for mums to work on their mental wellbeing. Moolla shares the perfect balance between personal experience and real life activities to try. It's like having a comforting conversation with a loved one, someone who understands exactly what you are going through. While reading alone, you feel comforted, listened to and supported. It is not a guidebook, it is not an activity book, it is not a memoir - it's so much more than all of that. It's a roadmap to help you work towards guilt free motherhood, a reminder to look after yourself throughout all stages of motherhood. 

It's a really gorgeous, comforting book for mums. I definitely recommend having a read for yourself. (It would also make a wonderful gift for any new mum this Christmas!) 

Guilt Free Mum - How To Be Kind To Your Mind is available from Amazon here, but if you fancy being in with a chance of winning a copy for yourself, you can enter our competition below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
   


If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 



avoid Christmas overwhelm stress
I've recently re watched Bad Moms Christmas, and even though it's utterly cringey, it's great and just like the first movie, it's actually pretty relatable! It's all about how we all have these high expectations or extraordinary promises and traditions to live up to, and let's be frank here - as mums, we are expected to do a lot at Christmas - and Christmas overwhelm sucks.

Not just mums, but parents in general put so much pressure on themselves, to give their children the 'perfect' Christmas each year, and it's utterly exhausting. With the popularity of social media nowadays, the pressure is more than it used to be even a few years ago! We're expected to decorate our entire homes, welcome the elf onto our shelves, desperately trying to ensure the season is magical for your children, search and overspend on matching family Christmas pyjamas, plan and overspend on gifts for everyone we know, wrap every single gift (beautifully and expertly I might add!), write 1000 cards which includes your child's friends as they unenthusiastically give up after 5, ensure your children occupy every waking minute with some sort of Christmas themed activity, planning the Christmas food, buying the Christmas food, desperately trying to find space to put away the Christmas food - the list is absolutely endless.

I don't want you to get me wrong, I'm no Grinch! I love everything about Christmas, but the weeks building up to it, there just constantly seems to be 100 things you need to do every day!

So today I wanted to share with you a few suggestions, to ensure you don't completely overwhelm yourself or put too much pressure on yourself this year, so you actually can enjoy the festive season yourself!

Ditch Traditions You Don't Enjoy
Many of the traditions we do with our family are actually ones we used to do when we were children! Some were really special and you continue to do them with your children, and that's ok if you all have fun doing it - like leaving a mince pie and a glass of milk out for Father Christmas (I used to love waking up on Christmas morning and rushing into the kitchen to see if he had eaten it!) So I do repeat this tradition with my children! However, when I was little I used to wake up on Christmas morning, drag my stocking from the end of my bed and hop into my parents' bed to unwrap it all! I absolutely loved it at the time, but this is something that just doesn't work for us as a family, so we simply don't do it! (My children do not stay in their beds, so it wouldn't work!). What I'm trying to say is, you absolutely do not have to repeat traditions just because you did them when you were little. Do what works for your family. 

Other traditions you can ditch are ones that cost too much for your budget! If it stresses you out spending too much on it each year, don't do it! Buying new matching pyjamas each year is absolutely lovely don't get me wrong, if you can afford it. If you can't afford to visit an extravagant Santa experience every year, don't do it! 

Lastly, ditch the traditions that stress you out! If you absolutely dread doing a particular tradition each year, don't pressure yourself to do it! If you hate having to come up with ideas for the Elf on the Shelf each night, and having to clean it up again in the morning - say bye bye to him! If you hate having to write 1000 Christmas cards, don't do it! Don't pressure yourself to do absolutely everything each year.

Create New Traditions You Love
Now you've decided which traditions you don't love, why not make some new traditions that fit your family. Remember that you are an adult, you are the parent. You can do what you want over the holidays. If you don't want a big roast dinner, don't cook it! If you don't want to go anywhere for Christmas, stay at home! If it's what you want, then go for it. Talk to your close family members and decide what are your favourite parts of Christmas, or what they'd like to do instead. Create your own traditions, it'll make them that much more special and everyone will look forward to them!

avoid christmas overwhelm stress

Stick To A Budget
Back to the point of not overstretching your budget. If you find yourself spending too much on gifts, plan and stick to a budget. Don't go on a massive shopping spree to buy everyone's gifts, have a think about what sort of things each person might like and ensure you have a budget in mind per person. Me personally, I have a certain amount I spend on my children, another amount for my husband, another amount for my parents, another amount for my siblings etc. I do it every year and it helps to know exactly what I have to spend. 

Allocate Jobs
Just remember, just because you're the mum, doesn't mean you physically have to do it all yourself. Allocate jobs for other family members to do (my husband cooks the Christmas dinner every year), if your children can write their cards, leave them to it, let someone else pick up the food shop, accept that invitation for Christmas dinner at someone else's house this year! Let and encourage others to help you out!

avoid christmas overwhelm stress

Stop Trying To Be Perfect
So you didn't create the perfect festive outdoor display? You didn't pick the most extravagant or expensive gift, but went with a classic you know the recipient will like? You didn't buy toy/book advent calendars and stuck to good old Cadbury? Perhaps you didn't hand make reindeer food or get your children to decorate Christmas cards? Does any of it really matter? I know, looking at social media it seems everyone else has got their act together apart from you, but that's simply not true. We all like to portray to others that we can do it all, make everything perfect for Christmas but we can't, and we don't. Let go of that perfect Christmas idea, put things into perspective. Give yourself a break and enjoy the moment with your loved ones.

Schedule Time For YOU
Speaking of giving yourself a break, make sure you make time for you, no matter what it takes. Tell your partner what you are doing and when so you won't forget, schedule it in your diary if needs be! (I do, there's no shame in it! It's far more likely to get done that way!) You deserve time out to rest, recharge, eat Christmas chocolate and binge watch festive movies if that's what you fancy. How can you feel Christmassy or be able to spread Christmas cheer if you're totally knackered? Take care of you!

I guess the main things to take from this post are, make it work for you all as a family, it doesn't have to be perfect, nobody is perfect, and lastly, make yourself a priority too!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! xx

If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffee

I'd really appreciate it! 

avoid christmas overwhelm stress


(AD/Review) The Queendom Within by Heidi Hauer

In a world focused on pressure, rushing and overwhelm, Heidi Hauer's "The Queendom Within" is a guiding light of empowerment and self realisation. 

I am a huge fan of inspirational books, particularly those aimed at women and mums, I was so excited to give this book a go. As soon as I started reading I knew I'd love this book. Encouraging women to seize their lives, to be the person they want and deserve to be. Embracing authenticity, and create their own path towards the life you desire.

The Queendom Within is a detailed guide to empowerment, with Heidi sharing personal moments, wisdom and guidance throughout. Her writing draws readers in, trusting her and relating to her. The book begins by dismantling the traditional fairy tales, challenging the stereotypical roles often assigned to women. She invites readers to rewrite their own fairy tales, create their own destinies. Propelling women to start their journeys of self discovery and self love while passing by stereotypical societal expectations.

(AD/Review) The Queendom Within by Heidi Hauer

It's not just a book, it's a transformation experience, the first step to your journey of being the real you, and inspiring women to support and uplift one another in their journeys too. It creates a sense of community and shared purpose amongst us readers too.

So here it is, your invitation to rediscover who you are, embrace the freedom to be unapologetically yourself, redefine your happy ever after. Grab the book here! If you want to be in with a chance of winning your own copy, you can enter our competition below;

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 


If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 



How To Stop Halloween Being So Stressful For A Mum


Halloween is a time for spooky fun and tasty treats, dressing up, spending time with friends and family - but, especially nowadays, it can also become a stressful time for mums.

The pressure is on us again, to make perfect costumes (either by spending a fortune or creating by hand!) to trying to keep up with the latest trends such as Boo Baskets!

It's so easy to get caught up in it all, and then feel guilty if we don't succeed. But it needs to change. Let's embrace the fun of Halloween without the stress, the overspending and mainly, the guilt!

Ditch the Costume Madness

The pressure to create or purchase extravagant, perfect, lifelike costumes for you and your family is one of the most common causes of Halloween stresses!

It can be extremely time consuming, extremely expensive and I need to remind you that it's perfectly ok to choose convenience over complexity. It's ok to buy supermarket costumes, it's ok to reuse costumes you already own, it's ok to borrow costumes, it's ok to not buy a costume at all!

Embrace Simplicity and Budget-Friendly Options

The Halloween industry has boomed over the years (even more so than Valentines Day now I think!) with 'trendy' items, elaborate decorations, fancy gift baskets for kids and partners, expensive days out that people are now calling a "family tradition", I'm talking to you, pumpkin patches. Haha.

It's so easy to fall into the trap and feel like you need to keep up with all of these trends. However it's important to remember that simplicity can be just as enjoyable. Instead of overspending on novelty "traditions", opt for budget friendly alternatives.

Often it's the simple traditions like carving pumpkins or wrapping up cosy watching Halloween movies together that create the most memorable memories!

How To Stop Halloween Being So Stressful For A Mum


Let Go of Pinterest-Perfect Expectations

Social media, particularly Pinterest and Instagram can make it feel like everyone else is having these perfect, movie worthy extravagant Halloween moments, but it's so important to remember IT'S NOT REAL.

These images are highlights and not reality. I remember feeling the same over the Summer, when everyone was posting images of expensive holidays abroad and it felt like everyone was going away, but that just wasn't true at all. A tiny slither of people who I follow were going away, and everyone else was struggling with money, just like us. I feel like social media promotes these fancy photos on purpose to make you feel like crap!!

It's so important to let go of the pressure to create a social media worthy Halloween and embrace your life, your family. Your children will appreciate your presence and excitement more than perfectly staged photos. (Honestly, kids hate it most of the time! Haha)

Halloween Is About Fun, Not Perfection

Halloween is about fun, and creating memories. It's not about perfection or trying to impress your followers, or your neighbours! Don't feel pressure to decorate your home elaborately or keep up with every trend, just to have something to post about!

Instead focus on what makes you and your family happy! Whether it's carving your pumpkins together or watching Hocus Pocus!

How To Stop Halloween Being So Stressful For A Mum

Make Halloween about the experience not about the aesthetics.


If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 



What's In The September Whimsical Mama Box

Whimsical Mama Box is an amazing way to treat yourself to some well-deserved self-care and wellness! Each month, you'll receive a surprise box filled with handpicked goodies specifically tailored to your needs. We all need a little extra self love and care, and this could be the perfect way to do just that - while also discovering new products that you may not have known about before. Filled with specifically chosen products by mums, for mums.

Let's have a look at the 'Back To School' themed Whimsical Mama Box from September!

What's In The September Whimsical Mama Box


Sheet Mask by Nivea
Unwind after school runs with this sheet mask magic. Nivea's soothing formula is like a hug for your skin, giving you that radiant glow to tackle the rest of the day.

Eye Serum by Joy Pretty Skin
Late-night study sessions or early mornings? Say goodbye to tired eyes! Joy Pretty Skin's eye serum is your secret weapon for looking fresh and ready, even when the schedule gets crazy.

Wax Melts by Cosy Art Co
Transport yourself to the comforting world of a bookshop with these wax melts. It's the perfect way to create a serene atmosphere, whether you're winding down after a hectic day or stealing a moment for yourself.

Protein Bar
Refuel and stay energized with a protein bar. It's the ideal on-the-go snack to keep up with the kiddos and conquer your day.

Self Care Workbook by A Dose of Reminders
Embrace a bit of "you" time with this self-care workbook. Dive into reflections and reminders tailored just for you—a must for any mama looking to reconnect with herself.

Pin by Pinspiration
This fab pin adds a touch of personality to your day. Pin it on as a reminder throughout the day of what an amazing mum you are!

Bath Bomb
Cap off the day with a blissful bath using this apple-shaped bath bomb. It's a little slice of heaven in your tub—because every mum deserves a moment of relaxation!

What's In The September Whimsical Mama Box


  • If you want to try out a box for yourself, visit our website for more information!


  • If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 



    Whimsical Mama Box Giveaway

    Today, we have some thrilling news to share with you – something special is on the horizon for busy mums like you!

    🍁 An Autumn Surprise Awaits 🍂

    As autumn leaves begin to fall and the cosy season approaches, we have prepared a delightful surprise just for you. We understand the importance of self-care for mums, especially during the busiest times, and that's why we cannot wait to share with you our new product!

    Whimsical Mama Box Giveaway

    📣 Stay Tuned for the Big Reveal! 🎉

    We're getting closer to the big reveal of our new product! To keep the excitement alive, we'll be dropping hints and sharing teasers on Instagram and other social media platforms without giving away the surprise. You'll have to trust us; it's going to be an unforgettable autumn-themed self-care experience designed especially for you, the incredible moms who inspire us every day.

    Follow us on Instagram ➡️ [CLICK HERE] to keep up with all the news and updates. We promise, the wait will be worth it!

    Thank you for being a part of the Whimsical Mama Box community. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to share this exciting journey with you.

    Whimsical Mama Box Giveaway

    P.S. Prepare for autumn magic with our upcoming surprise – it's just around the corner! 🍁✨

    In celebration of our new product, we are giving you the opportunity to win your own one of Whimsical Mama Box!


    a Rafflecopter giveaway




    If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 



    Whimsical Mama Box - August 2023

    Whimsical Mama Box is an amazing way to treat yourself to some well-deserved self-care and wellness! Each month, you'll receive a surprise box filled with handpicked goodies specifically tailored to your needs. We all need a little extra self love and care, and this could be the perfect way to do just that - while also discovering new products that you may not have known about before. Filled with specifically chosen products by mums, for mums.


    Let's have a look at the 'Stress Relief' themed Whimsical Mama Box from August!

    Whimsical Mama Box - August 2023

    1. Palmer's Hand Cream
      A luxurious and nourishing treat for busy mums, providing instant relief for dry, tired hands. Its rich cocoa butter formula offers a soothing and fragrant experience, allowing mums to take a moment for themselves amidst their hectic schedules.

      Miniature Secret Garden - Pocket Sized Colouring Book
      This cute colouring book is the perfect book for mums who enjoys colouring as their go-to form of self care. Allowing them to tap into their creativity and find moments of tranquillity amidst their daily responsibilities.

      Metallic Fibre Tip Pens
      The perfect companion for the colouring book above! With a variety of dazzling colours, these pens encourage moms to explore their artistic side, offering a therapeutic outlet for self-expression and relaxation.

      Aromatherapy Happy Vibes Pulse Point Roller
      A convenient self-care tool for mums seeking a quick mood boost. Infused with uplifting essential oils, it promotes emotional well-being and can be easily applied throughout the day, providing a sense of calm and positivity.

      Mindfulness Breathing Necklace
      A beautiful and practical accessory that helps mums incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines. With each breath, the necklace reminds them to take a moment to focus on their well-being, making self-care an integral part of their lives.

      Natural Shea & Mango Body Butter Cream
      A luscious treat for mums' skin, offering deep hydration and a delightful tropical scent. Its luxurious texture encourages mums to indulge in a little pampering and relaxation at the end of a busy day.

      Salt Scrub
      With its invigorating scent and exfoliating properties, it transforms a simple shower into a spa-like experience, allowing mums to escape and recharge.


    Whimsical Mama Box - August 2023


  • If you want to try out a box for yourself, visit our website for more information!


  • If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 



    Fall-ing in Love with Yourself This Autumn

    Autumn, with its crisp air and vibrant colours, offers the perfect backdrop for a season of self-love and self-care. As a busy mum, it's easy to put your own needs on the back burner, but this Autumn, let's change that. Embrace the changing leaves and cooler temperatures as an invitation to prioritise yourself. 

    The Importance of Self-Care in Autumn

    Motherhood is a full-time job, and it's easy to neglect your own well-being while caring for others. However, taking time for yourself isn't selfish; it's necessary for maintaining your physical and mental health.

    As the days get shorter and the weather cooler, many mums experience a shift in mood and energy levels. Seasonal changes can affect our well-being, making it even more important to focus on self-care in Autumn.

    Cosy Nights In

    Fall-ing in Love with Yourself This Autumn

    Create a Cosy Sanctuary

    Transform your home into a warm and inviting space. Add soft blankets, plush pillows, and scented candles to create a soothing atmosphere for relaxing and snuggling.

    Autumn Reading List

    Curl up with a good book. Choose a book that nourishes your soul or transports you to a different world. Reading can be a wonderful form of self-care in autumn.

    Movie Night

    Plan a movie night with your favourite autumn-themed films. Pair it with a bowl of popcorn and a cosy blanket for the ultimate relaxation.

    Warm Drinks

    Brew a cup of your favourite herbal tea or indulge in a pumpkin spice latte. Sipping a warm beverage can be incredibly comforting and part of your autumn routine.

    Seasonal Self-Pampering

    Fall-ing in Love with Yourself This Autumn

    Pumpkin Spice Beauty Routine

    Incorporate pumpkin-infused skincare products into your routine. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can rejuvenate your skin, enhancing your fall self-care regimen.

    Nature Walks

    Take advantage of the stunning fall foliage by going for nature walks. The combination of fresh air and the beauty of autumn can be incredibly invigorating for your mind.

    Fall-Inspired DIY Spa Night

    Create your own spa night with homemade face masks and scrubs using seasonal ingredients like cinnamon, honey, and oats. 

    Savor the Aromas

    Fill your space with autumn scents using essential oils. Scents like cinnamon, orange, and clove can evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, enhancing your autumn self-care routine.

    Journaling by the Fire

    If you have a fireplace, light it up and spend some quiet time journaling. Reflect on your thoughts, goals, and gratitude.

    Prioritise Your Well-Being

    Fall-ing in Love with Yourself This Autumn

    Self-care isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. It's about finding what works for you and making it a regular part of your routine. As a busy mum, it's easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but remember that by nurturing your well-being, you're better equipped to care for your loved ones.

    Autumn offers a beautiful opportunity for busy mums to fall in love with yourself again. By embracing cosy nights in and seasonal self-pampering, you can nourish your body and soul, ensuring you're ready to tackle the demands of motherhood with renewed energy and a refreshed spirit. 

    So, this Autumn, make self-care a priority, and watch as you bloom alongside the changing leaves.







    If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffeeI'd really appreciate it! 




    Fall-ing in Love with Yourself This Autumn - Self Care Tips For Mums In Autumn