More Energy for the Exhausted Mom, Practical Tips from Mom of 5

Summary

In this video, Lena offers seven practical tips to help exhausted mothers regain energy and find balance amidst the chaos of motherhood. She shares simple, actionable strategies such as identifying energy-giving activities, adding electrolytes to your routine, and using the 'Triple Threat' method (shoes, bra, baby carrier, and a 10-minute timer) to help mothers get moving and tackle tasks. Lena also encourages moms to start dinner early, take short breaks in the sun, and break down tasks into manageable portions. With a message of empathy and faith, Lena reminds moms that their efforts are valuable and they are not alone in their struggles.

Takeaways

• 😀 Acknowledge your feelings of exhaustion and low energy—you're not alone, and it's okay to feel this way.
• 😀 Notice the difference between energy givers and energy vampires in your life. Be mindful of what drains you and what uplifts you.
• 😀 Consider adding electrolytes to your daily routine, especially if coffee is draining your energy. This can help boost hydration and reduce sluggishness.
• 😀 Try the 'Triple Threat' method to kickstart your day: Put on shoes, wear a bra, and use a baby carrier if you have one. Then, set a 10-minute timer to tackle a small task.
• 😀 Start dinner prep after breakfast to avoid the end-of-day stress about what to cook. This can help save energy and time when you're feeling exhausted.
• 😀 Get some sunshine, even for just 10 minutes. A quick outdoor break can give you an energy boost and improve your mood.
• 😀 Break large tasks into smaller, more manageable portions. A small win, like a 2-minute tidy or 10-minute clean-up, can create momentum for the rest of the day.
• 😀 Motherhood can feel overwhelming, but remember that even when you're tired, you're doing meaningful and important work.
• 😀 Ask for help when you need it. It’s okay to lean on others and recognize that there will be seasons when you need support.
• 😀 Don't be ashamed of feeling weak or needing a break. You're still doing valuable work, and sometimes we're best used when we feel our weakest.
• 😀 Trust in your faith and take comfort in knowing that asking for help from God can bring strength, especially when you're running on empty.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video shared by Lena?

The main purpose of the video is to provide practical tips and encouragement for mothers who are feeling exhausted, low on energy, or even depressed, helping them manage the challenges of motherhood more effectively.

What does Lena mean by 'energy givers' and 'energy vampires'?

Lena explains that 'energy givers' are activities, people, or situations that uplift and energize you, while 'energy vampires' drain your energy. She encourages viewers to identify these in their lives and minimize exposure to the 'energy vampires.'

Why does Lena recommend adding electrolytes to your daily routine?

Lena suggests adding electrolytes to your daily routine because they can help replenish energy, especially if you're feeling sluggish after drinking coffee. Electrolytes can support hydration and boost energy levels, helping mothers feel more energized throughout the day.

What is the 'triple threat' technique Lena recommends for overcoming exhaustion?

The 'triple threat' technique includes three steps: 1) Put on shoes to help shift into a more active mindset. 2) Put on a bra to improve your posture and mental energy. 3) Strap your baby into a baby carrier to have your hands free while still being close to your child. Additionally, set a 10-minute timer to focus on a manageable task and build momentum.

How does starting dinner after breakfast help manage energy levels?

Starting dinner after breakfast helps reduce the mental burden of deciding what to cook later in the day. By getting a head start on dinner preparations, mothers can alleviate stress when they are feeling exhausted, knowing that the meal is already partially planned or started by the time dinner time arrives.

Why does Lena recommend getting sunshine during the day?

Lena recommends getting sunshine because it is an energy booster. Exposure to natural light, even for just a short walk, can help improve mood and increase energy, which is especially helpful for mothers who are feeling drained.

What is the concept of 'doable portion' in relation to household tasks?

The 'doable portion' concept refers to breaking down household tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks instead of feeling overwhelmed by the need to do everything at once. For example, doing a quick 2-minute clean-up or setting a 10-minute timer for a task helps create momentum and reduces the pressure of perfection.

How does Lena address the emotional challenges of motherhood, especially feeling low or overwhelmed?

Lena acknowledges that it's common for mothers to feel low, overwhelmed, or even depressed. She encourages viewers to avoid shaming themselves for these feelings and reassures them that these emotions are normal and shared by many mothers. She also emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's emotional state without judgment.

What is Lena's message about the importance of motherhood, even when feeling exhausted?

Lena emphasizes that motherhood is meaningful and impactful, even when mothers feel tired and exhausted. She shares a personal story about a missionary friend who reminded her that sometimes people are best used in God's work when they are feeling weak, highlighting that mothers are doing important and beautiful work even when they feel drained.

How does Lena suggest handling the exhaustion of motherhood while still managing family responsibilities?

Lena advises asking for help when needed, acknowledging that it's okay to be in a season where you're more needy than usual. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing your bandwidth and seeking support from others, whether it’s family or friends, without feeling ashamed of needing assistance.