The freedom is in the discipline.

The results is in the small gains, not the big ones.

I get to chat with most of my virtual clients for about 30 minutes each week. We discuss their goals, any questions they have, and I create their weekly workout program. In these lovely recaps I get to have with these wonderful mommas, I often notice a common theme. It's usually something seasonal (like stress around the holidays, travel over the Summer), and often something I believe must be shared! My US mommas are currently in the crazy weeks of post-Thanksgving and the end of the year. Truly the 4th quarter. Some of us have senior-itis - wanting to just punt everything until January. The rest of us are sprinting to the end of the year trying to get everything done. Fueled by caffeine, love, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

But I'm not going to write about that today.

We know as moms that some seasons are just busier than others.

If you’ve got upcoming travel, kids home from school, it’s the holidays, or just May, sometimes things can get really chaotic. With young kids, you don't always get freedom with your time, and are running on really small margins. You might be feeling overwhelmed, and a little frustrated when you aren't able to stick to your schedule.

Sure- I am the mom that absolutely thrives in her routine. I prefer to get up early, workout, and then get the dishes, laundry, and light housework out of the way before I hear the first “MOM!!” of the day.

This, of course, does not always happen. I am a mess the entire week of a child’s birthday. A snow day or a cold will knock me off my pedestal for a week. And yes, I absolutely find mountains of toys, clothing, and dust bunnies that come out of nowhere. I often skip my weekend workouts because we just have too much going on.

But this doesn't derail me. Because this is a process.

I truly believe that there is freedom in discipline. It’s not the deep cleans, the pedicures, the kid-free vacay, etc, that gives you the reps of self care. Motherhood and Parenting is a Marathon. The self care of regularly drinking water, scheduling your own health appointments or regular date nights, staying consistent in your gym routine, that's where the Peace comes. It is the BORING that truly adds up to your overall health and peace. 

So if you're in a really chaotic part of the journey, please let me remind you that it is truly one step at a time.

If you workout 5 days a week, a 2 week vacation is not going to set you back. From a physio stand point - you won't see strength losses for 3 weeks, and 3 months for cardiovascular losses. When the busy seasons happen - as they will - you won't be abandoning all of your goals. Give yourself a longer warm up, go for a shorter jog and stretch for longer, start with a 10% lighter weight, etc, after some time off. Otherwise, just know that you've already done the work to create the space for results, and add back as life graces it.

The maintenance phase of exercise, or anything, can be the hardest part. You have got to make it work for you. If it's something you don't enjoy, like folding laundry, do a little bit every day. Or do it first thing in the morning, so it's done and you aren't dreading it. The joy of living in a clean home doesn't mean you are deep cleaning every day, it's the simple process of routine. Doing the reps of going through your child's drawers each season won't feel overwhelming if you review what's in them every time you put away their laundry. Not exactly the sexiest job, but it gives you freedom. A 20 minute walk, 15 minute lift, or weekly Yoga class might seem small, but this regular practice truly adds up.

You are capable of so much, and you deserve to enjoy this precious life with your babies. So please, when times are a little nutty, give yourself some grace. Know that you are not alone in feeling the overwhelm, and take little steps at a time.

xoxo

SA