Everyday stress management tips for single moms
February 27, 2013
Stress can manifest in a variety of ways, be it a simple tension headache or general poor health. Moods and energy levels can also take a severe hit from heightened, ongoing levels of stress, which could in turn have a plethora of negative impacts on home life, work and financial aid for college. Finding ways to keep stress under control and avoid it if possible is ideal, and since the life of a single mom is likely to be more stressful than most, coming up with ways to make sure it stays in check is essential.
Keep things in perspective
This is a vital trait that mothers should pick up not just for stress management but also to help with applying for scholarships for single moms. Getting overwhelmed immediately at the sheer size of the tasks set before them can make any person, especially single parents, feel defeated before they even begin. The volume of tasks, hurdles and other potential issues may just seem like too much compared to handling kids, home and school alone. The Huffington Post recommended taking a step back in such situations and granting a moment just to breathe. Then, start a list, make a chart of come up with a schedule to ensure that problems are handled completely and methodically. Getting things done on time will make moms feel more in control and less stressed.
Get some workout in
Even if it's only 15 or 20 minutes a day, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette wrote that finding time for fitness is essential for single moms. Working out can make women feel like they're taking care of themselves, creating better body image. This activity also helps release endorphins, a chemical in the brain that helps regulate mood and promote positive sensations. The source also recommended not confusing walking between classes or from the bus to work as exercise - setting aside a small block of time each day is mandatory for it to feel like personal time, which is the only way for exercise to most successfully remove stress.
Sleep it off
At the end of the day, it's important that mothers get plenty of rest. If a hectic day or an approaching deadline for an application for financial aid for college is approaching, the Huffington Post recommended relaxation techniques and other methods to clear the mind and get to sleep. Being overtired can negatively impact mood, productivity and future ability to recover from stress.
