The Sports Mom's Guide to Health and Wellness.
Being a mom to athletes is a full-time job onto itself. Between driving to practices, cheering at games, comps, meets, and making sure everyone's gear is ready to go, your day to day errands, work, it's easy to forget about your own health and wellness.
There are so many memes today about being a cheer mom, dance mom, soccer mom, volleyball mom, insert the sport your child/children play.
We make jokes that it's like paying another mortgage for the club sports and competition sports, we joke about living out of our cars and sitting in parking lots, we know that our kids love the sports and we do it for them and to watch them succeed, build responsibility, foster cooperation, leadership, perseverance, and more.
But what about us? What about the adults?
It's crucial for sports moms to stay on top of our game, too. We have very long days at games, meets, competitions and we we feel stressed our kids can feed off of us. If we are overwhelmed they might think they are a burden to us.
I always wake up early to meditate and do affirmations before a sporting event. I like to be ready before they wake up. I have their uniforms set out the night before so there is no last minute scramble the morning of searching for parts of a uniform. If it is an out of town athletic event I make sure to pack everything a day or 2 before as well.
Here's how you can manage stress and maintain your health while supporting your young athletes:
1. Prioritize Your Health
It's easy to skip your workout or grab fast food when you're running from one activity to the next. But maintaining your own health is essential. Try scheduling your workouts like any other appointment. A 30-minute walk or a quick yoga session can make a big difference in your energy levels and mood. Apps that offer short, guided workouts can be a lifesaver on particularly hectic days.
2. Eat Well
Nutrition is key, not just for you but for your entire family. Planning meals ahead of time can prevent last-minute unhealthy choices. Consider prepping meals over the weekend or using a slow cooker to save time. Snack on fruits, nuts, and other healthy options rather than reaching for chips or candy. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also crucial to keep you hydrated and focused. Bring snacks to games and competitions.
3. Manage Stress
The life of a sports mom can be incredibly stressful. It's important to find ways to manage that stress so it doesn't overwhelm you. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even reading a book can help you unwind and regroup after a long day. Don't hesitate to use technology here too; many apps offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises tailored for busy schedules.
4. Sleep is Crucial
Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep. Sleep helps you recover from the day and improves your overall health. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. Avoid caffeine and electronics before bed to improve the quality of your sleep. If you find it hard to wind down, consider creating a bedtime routine that might include reading or light stretching. Out of town events I always bring a noise machine and my essential oils diffuser.
5. Connect with Other Sports Moms
Building a community with other sports moms can provide tremendous support. Sharing tips, venting about the day's frustrations, or just having a laugh can make all the difference. Consider starting a group chat or planning monthly meet-ups. Sometimes, just knowing you're not in this alone can be a huge relief.
6. Keep it Fun
Remember why you're doing all this in the first place: to support your children in something they love. Enjoy the games, celebrate the victories, and learn from the defeats. Keeping a positive attitude not only helps you cope with the stress but also sets a great example for your kids.
Balancing the demands of being a sports mom with personal health and wellness can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. By taking care of yourself, you're not just being a good mom; you're setting the stage for a happy, healthy family.
Stay strong, stay healthy, and enjoy the journey!