March in Texas is an incredible time of year. Birds chirping, flowers blooming, soccer, tennis, golf, softball, baseball… The kids are back in action!
That often means Mom’s new home is the car, the bleachers and the foldable chair under the umbrella. Fun memories are in the making, but it can all become very overwhelming and frustrating if you aren’t prepped and ready for the grind.
I have a few tips that will keep you looking and feeling energized, and organized.
First off, never underestimate the power of a family meal plan. The only way you and your kids will stay energized is through proper nutrition. Pick a day (I use Sundays) to create a list of the meals, snacks and groceries you’ll need for the upcoming week. Search the Internet for family meal plans and healthy recipes – there are dozens of good sites out there to help you. Then hit the grocery store.
When you get home, it’s time to create your plan. Prepare as much ahead of time as you can. Make a big pot of oatmeal to be eaten throughout the week. Create healthy tuna sandwiches, cut them up into small servings and package them in sandwich bags for the quick grab-and-go.
Cut up carrots, celery, jicama, radishes or whatever else you and your kids like. Place them in a glass pan or bowl with enough water to cover them, then refrigerate. The water will keep them crisp and delicious for the week.
A handful of almonds makes a great snack. Just be sure to separate them into individual servings so you don’t overdo it.
Once everything is packaged, you’re ready to create your “kitchen on wheels.”
Find, or buy, a cooler that will fit in between your seats. Keep snacks, water bottles and small meals ready in the cooler. You’ll be surprised how easy it is!
Best of all, with just a little preparation, you’ll no longer have to sacrifice your family’s health at the drive-thru!
One more thing: Don’t forget to move! If you find yourself getting exhausted by all the running around, a little exercise will put that “pep” back in your step. By taking the time to take care of yourself, you’ll be a better mom who’s more capable of handling the day’s inevitable stresses.
Get up earlier! Yes, I just said that. As a wise man once said, “You can sleep when you’re dead!” Early morning is the best time for most busy moms to get their exercise in, since no one is awake to bother you!
Try this: Plan 15 minutes of something physical first thing in the morning – walking, running, swimming, jumping rope…I don’t care what it is. But whatever you do, keep going for 15 minutes. That will get you started. Soon, you’ll feel like 20 minutes, then 30, and before you know it, you’re hooked. And that’s a good thing!
Your waistline will stay slim – or get slimmer – and your entire body will thank you!
So, busy mom…No more excuses. Get planning, and get moving. Pretty soon, you won’t know what to do with all the extra energy. (Don’t worry…you’ll figure something out!)
Chani Overstreet is an NASM Certified Personal Trainer and co-owner of Strada Fitness & Wellness Center with her husband, Luke. Strada is a state-of-the-art fitness studio located at 3041 Churchill Drive, Suite 100, in Flower Mound, across from Lifetime Fitness. Call 972.330.4300 or visit www.StradaFitness.com for more information.
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