3 Ways millennial moms can prioritize their personal health

Nearly 1 in 5 new moms is a millennial. Millennials–sometimes referred to as Gen Y–were born between 1981 and 1996 and are quite literally the mother of all generations.

 As time passes, the number of moms who identify as “millennials” will continue to grow. In the last year alone, of the 1.5 million women who have become mothers, 90% were millennials. 

A comprehensive new study shows that millennial moms are the caretakers, the planners, the manager for the family, a teacher for their children, the household chef, the on-call nurse, the financial controller, and oftentimes, the breadwinners. She is overwhelmed with tasks, daily chores, and obligations.

Most millennial moms feel like time is flying and nothing is getting done and we understand it! 

Our post-pandemic era has a different vibe we’re all trying to work with. Our new normal has us running circles around new ways to live, communicate, work, and more! One of those areas is connecting with one another as a family, with friends, and our community, and most importantly, ourselves. Where can women fit in self-care and wellness with their overwhelming schedules?

“Mom guilt” is real

Many mothers worry that if they take time out for themselves they're going to miss out on precious moments with their partners, children, and friends.

Instead of focusing on quantity time, consider how taking better care of yourself might help you enjoy more quality time with your family. When you're exercising, eating right, and prioritizing self-care, you'll find you have more energy to show up the way you want to with your loved ones—and with everyone else.

If you’re a millennial mom looking to cultivate intentional moments in your life, keep reading for 3 reasons to prioritize your personal health and wellness. 


1. Care for emotional and mental wellbeing

Pouring from an empty vessel is the fastest way to burnout. Planning little bits of self love in the day can keep you going, even during dark times.

Some examples include a short 15 minute yoga video (even online), sitting in silence or meditation for at least 5 minutes, and saying uplifting mantras to yourself throughout the day. The less time you make for your mental health and wellness, the more time you’ll pay in stress, overload, and decreased mental health later.

2. Movement and exercise

Mothers understand how difficult it can be, to just “mom”, throughout the day. Even stronger than the physical burdens of being a woman and a mother, is the emotional toll it takes. Study after study has shown that exercise can help alleviate stress, anxiety, depression, and even a bad mood. Yet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 60% of US women aren't getting enough physical activity. 

Setting aside just 20 or 30 minutes a day to move your body will not only have physical benefits —your emotions will thank you, too! Even 10 minutes a day could make a huge impact. Some simple ways to add movement to your day could be desk chair yoga, a quick walk, or some low-impact stretching in your living room! Everything always points back to proper nutrition and exercise. 

3. Sleep schedules
   
   
   A study by the Sleep Research Society found that mothers are sleep-deprived for the first six years of parenthood. (Of course, when your children become teenagers and adults, you start to lose sleep for a whole new set of reasons.)

To improve sleep quality and overall health, women—particularly mothers—need to stay on a sleep routine that can help them balance the never-ending demands of their day.