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“Happiness is not something ready made. It
comes from your own actions.” - Dalai Lama
W
e know that happiness is an emotion
that can come and go. But how do we
recapture that bubbly feeling amid the
challenges and stresses of parenthood? Here are a
few tips from moms for staying positive and
feeling good.
LEAN ON COMMUNITY. Several moms polled for this
article agreed that moms’ night outs with their
friends help them feel more optimistic. And science
proves it. Studies find that time spent bonding
with friends boosts a woman’s level of oxytocin,
a natural hormone that reduces stress. Check
out mothers’ groups in your area if you are
struggling to build a support network.
COMMIT TO HEALTHY LIVING. Women who
make time to care for their bodies, enjoy a
stronger self-image and feel more self-
confident and energetic. Exercise, try to
get adequate sleep, schedule regular
massages and make healthy food
choices to feel your best. “I know that
when I am reasonably well-rested and
happy, I am absolutely more patient,
energetic and empathetic to everyone in
my household,” says Erica Wilson, a mom
of one.
TAKE TIME FOR PERSONAL PURSUITS. Whether
you like surfing Pinterest, training for a 5K or
simply taking a warm bubble bath, moments
stolen throughout the week contribute to our
overall sense of well-being. “I try to take at
least a few minutes a day outside. I close my
10 | V O L U S I A parent M A G A Z I N E