MamaZen: Quick Self-Care Practices for Busy Therapist Moms
As Therapist Moms, the constant shuffle of managing a thriving practice alongside the demands of family life can be both rewarding and challenging. Juggling these responsibilities requires a deliberate commitment to self-care, and the practice of mindfulness becomes an invaluable ally in fostering well-being. Welcome to MamaZen, a space where we explore quick and effective self-care practices tailored for the busy therapist mom. Use these quick skills while you’re waiting to pick up the kids or waiting on your next client.
Morning Mindfulness Magic
Start your day with intention and presence. Consider incorporating a short morning mindfulness routine to set a positive tone for the day. A few minutes of deep breathing, gentle stretching, or a brief meditation can ground you in the present moment, providing a powerful foundation for the day ahead.
Lisa Duez, LCSW a mother of two boys says “Grounding in my body has been so important because I am an over thinker, and it’s a great reminder that I can come back to my place of balance.”
Transitioning with Clarity
Switching between the roles of Therapist and Mom requires mindful transitions. Before entering your home, office or engaging with your family, take a moment to center yourself. A few conscious breaths can serve as a mental reset, ensuring you step into each role with clarity and focus.
Smells are a great way to imprint transitions. Lisa says “someone gave me the idea to use lavender essential oil when I got home to help with that transition - and it helped.”
Micro-Self-Care Moments
Busy schedules call for micro-self-care moments, those precious pockets of time dedicated to nurturing your well-being. Sip your favorite tea mindfully, take a short walk, or simply gaze out of a window. These micro-moments offer rejuvenation within the hustle, promoting a sustainable self-care lifestyle.
Who am I?
Hi! I’m MacKenzie, your Self-Care Mompanion. I’m a therapist and mom, too. Over the past couple of years I’ve been working hard to embrace who I am as a Therapist and Mom. I’ve been challenging some of the societal norms of each role. Something that has helped me tremendously is finding groups of like-minded Therapist Moms to get support from. These women are much like yourself. Burned out. Excited about the work they do. Love being a Mom and recognize it’s not easy all of the time. I hope you’ll keep reading and join us in the realness of being a Therapist Mom.
Mindful Eating Bliss
Transform mealtime into a mindful experience. Instead of rushing through meals, savor each bite…or at least a couple of bites. Pay attention to flavors, textures, and sensations. Mindful eating not only enhances your connection with food but also provides a moment of mental stillness in your day.
Breath of Renewal
Bring attention to your breath throughout the day. Short breaks for conscious breathing anchor you in the present moment, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that can be seamlessly integrated into even the busiest of schedules.
Lisa says that “a quick breath helps me get recentered and grounded.”
MamaZen Movement
Incorporate mindful movement into your routine, be it through yoga, tai chi, or simple stretching exercises. These activities contribute to physical well-being while cultivating heightened awareness and presence, helping you navigate the ebb and flow of your day with ease.
Evening Reflection
As the day winds down, engage in a brief reflection. Acknowledge moments of joy, challenges, and accomplishments without judgment. This practice promotes gratitude and acceptance, paving the way for a restful night's sleep.
“It’s great if you journal it, but also thinking about those moments is as effective and brings you peace as you close out your day,” Lisa states.
Tech Detox
Consciously manage your interaction with technology. Designate specific times for emails and social media. Mindful technology use supports a more focused approach to your work and personal life, reducing digital distractions.
In the realm of MamaZen, quick and effective self-care practices are not just an indulgence but a necessity. These moments of mindfulness are your tools for resilience, helping you navigate the complexities of being a Therapist Mom with a sense of balance and tranquility. Embrace the MamaZen lifestyle – where every breath, every pause, and every moment is an opportunity for self-care and renewal in the midst of life’s beautiful chaos.
Here's how you can work with me:
Self-Reflection: Begin by reflecting on your own experience, expectations and self-care. How are those all impacting each other? Check out Journey to Self-Care Journaling Workbook to get started.
Schedule a Consultation: Reach out for a consultation where we can discuss your specific challenges and goals.
Customized Strategies: Together, we'll develop personalized strategies to help you let go of perfectionism, find balance, and embrace the imperfections that make motherhood unique.
Lisa Duez, LCSW, is the CEO of a thriving group practice in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Lisa prioritizes the well-being of clinicians and champions trauma-informed care. With over two decades of experience as a trauma therapist and leader, Lisa provides valuable consultation to practice owners. She shares her expertise as a respected speaker and trainer on topics related to trauma, leadership, and clinician care. She is also the founder of "Clinician Connection" and, along with her partner, Chris, created the Clinician Connection Conference.
Sign up for the conference using code “Theramama” and get a discount on your ticket. Good through 3/1/24.
