Family Stress

by Amanda Joseph
(Cape Town, South Africa)

If mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!

As a stay at home mother of two young children, I have a lot of family stress.

From dealing with tantrums and potty training of my demanding toddler, to my inquisitive, adventurous 1 year old trying to explore her world and getting into all kinds of troubles, life at home is never dull.

There are certain things that I've put in place to help me manage the stress. When it feels like everyone is whining or crying, including myself, I bundle us all up and go out for a long walk. The fresh air, the exercise and the distraction of being outside with lots of different sounds and sights certainly helps to change all our moods around.

Trying to do yoga at home hasn't worked for me (the kids tend to use me as a jungle gym when I am in one of my postures). So I go out to a yoga class 2 times a week. This helps me fill my well mentally, emotionally and physically and I find I'm a better, more patient parent when I return.

And once the kids are asleep, a hot bath, a cup of tea and a piece of chocolate all help to remind me that despite all the stresses and challenges, I have a lot to be grateful for.

Having other mommy friends to chat to also helps to make sure I don't lose my sense of humour, there's nothing like a good laugh to melt your troubles away!