Busy Mum Life: Squeezing in Exercise on the Go

Life as a busy working mum can be a juggling act, right?

Finding time for yourself can sometimes feel like an unattainable luxury. 

Photo by Giorgia Torre - Italy, 2022

Don't picture me as one of those superfit and flexible yoga teachers; quite the opposite!

I've always cherished movement, but since becoming a mother, finding time for myself has been a challenge.

I've come to the realization that, for now, I can’t dedicate the same hours as before pregnancy to yoga, meditation, long wild walks, and cycling.

So here I am, with my chubby belly, sharing what works for me.

My key tips:

👉 If you try making exercise a non-negotiable part of your daily schedule, it won’t be so difficult to skip it. 

👉 Forget the idea that exercise must be an hour-long commitment. Instead, break it down into manageable 10 to 15 minutes whenever it fits into your day. 

👉 No need for a dedicated workout space – just stand up and get moving!

…If you are interested in simple exercises for weight loss and getting fit, you may want to check out my other blogs.

Here, I offer suggestions on how you can incorporate movement into your days—movement that will make you feel good.

Photo by Emma Simpson on Unsplash

The happier and light-hearted you are,

the better you handle life’s demands for yourself, your family and work.

Consider starting your day with some gentle stretches.

I am not talking about waking up at 5am to do a workout. I value my sleep, sacrificing those precious hours is a big no-no for me.

However, from personal experience, I understand how our body can feel stiff when getting out of bed.

Photo by Kinga Howard on Unsplash

— Why not try waking up 15 minutes earlier than your usual time and do some quick stretching as soon as you step out of bed? It’s less likely you’ll forget about it in that way. 

Stretch while waiting for the kettle to boil or whilst your children are having breakfast - Multitasking at its finest! 

Alternatively, just turn on some music and have a little boogie with your kids!

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Working from home, I've found that spending an entire day indoors on a laptop isn't healthy for me.

It leaves me feeling more cluttered in my mind, with little energy, grumpy mood, and achy all over.

Photo by Windows on Unsplash

My solution?

Splitting my workday with at least a 15-minute walk before lunch. While I prefer a 45-minute stroll, time doesn't always allow, so I make the most of what I have. A short walk still does wonders for my wellbeing. In between work I also do some quick exercises - like 15 squats, 3 times per day during the workday.

If you, like me, work from home, consider giving this a try.

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Commuting to work? If you can, walk or cycle.

If not, you could have a brief stroll after work or post-dinner with your partner on kid duty.

Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

For those of us, myself included, who don't have a partner at home in the evenings, I still enjoy taking my toddler for a walk after her evening routine, around 7 pm.

It’s a win-win – she falls asleep in the pram, and I get my exercise.

Beyond the physical benefits, these evening walks become my mental reset button. Closing the day with fresh air, letting go of worries, and embracing the tranquility around me.

Remember, some movement is always better than none.

Photo by Stas Ostrikov on Unsplash

Forget perfection; don't let it be your enemy.

Life is a series of moments, and your wellbeing deserves to be part of each one. So, whether you're in the kitchen, on a call, or just before bedtime, find those pockets of time to consciously move and breathe.

Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Here's to embracing the motherhood chaos, one stretch at a time!

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