Take a deep breath...and relax

Do you feel overwhelmed by all the things that need to be done when you have a baby? or by all the attention a baby needs? It doesn't matter if you're a full time working parent or a full time stay at home parent. Work is work, right? Even being a stay at home parent can be overwhelming; parents can feel overwhelmed with the amount of chores and daily care-giving to do when you have a baby or older children.

This is the time to take a short step back, and relax. Have some time to yourself. Even if it's just a few minutes a day. Do something that brings you joy and be present at that moment.

Furthermore, you may notice that your baby picks up on the energy that you send out. Let me explain further. If you feel angry or stressed, have you noticed your baby picking up on that and feeling agitated and fussing or crying? When you're calm and relax or happy, your baby picks up on that energy and calms down pretty quickly or stay calm? This is why we have a relaxation step before you massage your baby.

One mom gave a really good suggestion. Before picking up her crying baby, she takes 3 deep, slow breaths and then pick him up. This makes her feel better. Another mom sings while her baby cries and she's trying to soothe him, because singing calms her down too! Everyone has their own way and method that works for them. Do tell us yours in the comments below! :)

Here I'm going to suggest taking quick 3 deep, slow breaths whenever you feel tensed. Do this with presence and awareness; focus on your breath.

How to do this: Slowly breathe in, hold for 2-3 seconds, and then slowly release all the tension from your body through your breath.

Here's another relaxation exercise which can be useful when you feel tired and need to regain some energy to feel refreshed again but do not have enough time to take a nap. Note: Please do make sure that your baby is in safe hands before you proceed with this relaxation exercise. She could be sleeping in a safe place or in the care of someone. She could also be sleeping in your arms while you have her wrapped around you (i.e. babywearing).

You can download the free relaxation exercise from this website (English and Chinese versions):
http://www.silvamethod.com.my/free_download.php

Follow the voice in the audio. It will guide you to feel relax.

One thing to be aware of; if possible, do not come out of the meditative level all of a sudden. This may cause headaches because you're in a deep relaxation level and suddenly coming back into the room which is a different level. If you have to wake up suddenly, take 3 deep breaths first and slowly come out of it.

Note: This is a simple relaxation exercise. It has no religion symbols or chants in them. It will make you feel more refreshed when you're done with it.

Try it and do share your experience with everyone in the comments below.

If you have another quick relaxation techniques that works for you, do share them below as well!

Love & hugs,
Jashpreet Kaur

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