What did you learn from 2022?
Welcome to 2023 everyone!
2022 for me was a steep learning curve. I spent most of it on maternity leave so had the pleasure of bringing a new life into the world then trying to support everyone adjusting to this new little milk monster in our family.
So what did 2022 teach me that I want to bring into 2023?
1. Smell the flower (breathe in) and Blow out the candles (breathe out)
This is something I hope to continue into 2023. When life gets overwhelming it’s easy to forget that deep breathing calms your nervous system. My toddler taught me to “smell the flower then blow out the candles” (thanks daycare). I take this further by actually going outside to smell some flowers as the fresh air, sunshine and just getting into nature decreases stress levels which creates more calm.
2. Embrace the chaos because fighting it is a battle you ain’t gonna win
I like to plan and I try to be organised but parenting is hard even if you have an “easy” baby (do these really exist or are they like unicorns?) then add returning to work and other life stuff… I am finally learning to embrace this chaos because even with the best planning it’ll never go to plan.
3. Be kinder to myself and those around me
There will never be enough time to do anything & everything. I get what needs to get done, done, then spend the rest of the time enjoying my family. I mean really… who cares if my washing stayed on the line all day and will remain there all night? I am a much more fun mum and have less “yelly” days if I have a kinder attitude towards myself & what is actually achievable. This in turn means I am kinder to those around me and life gets a bit more harmonious.
4. Continue with regular chiropractic care
Ok, so I’m bias because I am a chiropractor but I really tried to stay on a regular schedule of care while on maternity leave. This was actually a challenge because I was used to just getting a quick adjustment while I was at work. Regular care helps me deal with mum life and soothed my aches & pains. I’ll admit this is easier now I’m back at work!!!
So for 2023 I hope to use what I learnt above so I can see the world around me with the enthusiasm of a 3.5 year old and the fascination of a 7 month old (like my kids).