Incorporating Exercise Into Your Busy Mum Life

The role of motherhood can feel like there is very little room left for self care, let alone exercise. However, incorporating exercise into your life not only benefits your physical health but also your mental well-being.

Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, our natural mood lifters which can help reduce stress, anxiety and improve your overall mental state.

But what if you don't have time for exercise, or truthfully you detest every type of exercise you've tried, and it feels more like torture?! Trust me, preaching to the choir here. I am NOT a sporty person, I am a lazy, cosy, stay at home person. I used to force myself to try exercise video, weight lifting videos, Zumba - and it felt SO forced, I hated it. But then I found running, something that I did actually enjoy. Yes, it's still tough, and some days I really can't be bothered - but the feeling when the endorphins hit, when you've won the challenge or goal you set yourself, the feeling is like nothing else!

Elevating Mood and Reducing Stress

Exercise is a natural stress reliever by promoting endorphins and reducing cortisol level - and as a mum, our stress levels can be so up and down! Regular physical activity offers a healthy outlet for stress. Personally, when I go for a run, it's my time to just absolutely zone out. Blast my music and not have to think about anything at all, besides the very next step. It's honestly become a really important part of my life.

Boosting Self-Confidence

The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a workout can significantly boost self-confidence. If you are a mum who sometimes struggles having to juggle everything - achieving your personal fitness goals are an amazing reminder for just how capable, resilient and strong you really are!

Enhancing Mental Clarity

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brown, which can enhance cognitive function and mental clarity, which is hugely valuable for mums who need to make quick decisions and stay organised throughout the day. Perhaps this is why many people like to exercise right at the beginning of their day?

Incorporating Exercise into a Busy Mum Life

Again, it can feel like exercise is just another thing you don't have time for, but I've said it before and I'll say it again - make yourself a priority.

Start with achievable goals, such as a 15 minute exercise video on Youtube or a lunchtime walk, perhaps every other day? It doesn't have to be an intense workout, you just have to figure out what works for you, and your family - and what you enjoy!

Consistency is far far more important, than intensity. So instead of aiming for lengthy workouts, focus on short, frequent exercises that can easily fit into your day. Try and stick to it for a week, then 2 weeks and see how you feel.

Involve Your Children

Personally, this doesn't work for me as I like my time alone, however it's different for everyone. Why not try and incorporate your children into your exercise routine? Go for long family walks or bike rides, play active games in the park or try exercise videos together. One thing I've always wanted to do when my children were babies, was to buy a running pushchair and take them with me! 

Incorporating exercise into your life is more than just physical activity, it's an investment in your overall wellbeing, plus you are being an amazing role model to your children!

Have you found an exercise you love yet?

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