How to Find Balance in the Sleep Struggle: Insights from a Mom

Sleep – it’s a cornerstone of our health and overall well-being. It influences our mood, energy levels, productivity, and immune system. Experts recommend a solid seven to nine hours of sleep for optimum health. Sounds ideal, right? Well, for us moms, the reality can be quite different.

Between juggling work, household chores, and the never-ending needs of my son, finding time for a good night’s sleep can seem like an elusive dream. Even when I do carve out a little ‘me-time,’ my son often has different ideas in mind.

I’ve got a bedtime routine that’s meant to be my ticket to serenity – reading, meditating, and cuddling with my son. In theory, it’s a lovely picture. In practice? Not always. My son occasionally transforms into the ‘bedtime bungee jumper’ or becomes the ‘inquisitive question machine.’ Or the classic: ‘I’m not tired, I’m just famished and want to chat.’ He’s so charmingly persuasive that I often cave in.

But what’s the cost? It means sacrificing precious sleep, leading to groggy days ahead. It’s a dilemma – balancing my need for rest and my desire to savour these fleeting moments of his childhood.

I don’t claim to have all the answers, but here are a few tips I’ve found helpful:

Establish Consistent Bedtimes: Setting regular sleep schedules for you and your child can help regulate your internal clocks, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up.Watch Your Diet: Caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine can keep you awake and affect how well you sleep, so you should avoid them near bedtime.Create a Sleep-Inducing Space: Make your bedroom a haven for sleep – think dark, quiet, calm, and cosy. Use curtains, blinds, fans, earplugs, or whatever it takes to set the mood.Ditch Screens Before Bed: Screen blue light can mess with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Give yourself an hour’s break from screens, or use dimmer settings.Unwind with Purpose: Find a relaxing pre-sleep ritual that works for you, whether reading, meditation, cuddling, soothing music, stretches, or a warm bath.Flexibility with Patience: Understand that your child might not always be ready to sleep on your schedule. Be patient, empathetic, and willing to compromise. A little extra story or some extra cuddles can go a long way.Embrace the Moment: Parenting is harsh, but the rewards are immeasurable. Don’t fret too much about lost sleep. The memories you create with your child are worth more than any hours of rest.

Motherhood is a journey, a unique blend of challenges and incredible moments. If you’re seeking advice or support, schedule a call with me here. You can also check my profile for other services and products.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but we’re all navigating this together.

#MomLifeJourney #SleepStruggles #ParentingWisdom