Being a mom while working a full-time remote job is a juggling act, but I’ve learned that making time for self-care not only benefits me but also my family. It’s not always easy, but having a routine and a few key strategies in place has made all the difference in maintaining my health and energy levels. Here’s how I make it work:
Prioritizing Strength and Movement
I make it a priority to use my lunch break four times a week for strength training and one day a week for pelvic floor exercises. It’s my time to focus on building strength and supporting my body, especially after motherhood changes. To keep moving during the day, I use my walking pad to get in at least an hour of walking during work hours. Whether it’s while I’m answering emails or on a virtual meeting, it’s a simple way to stay active and boost my energy.
High-Protein Snacks for PCOS Support
As someone managing PCOS, I’ve found that having high-protein snacks on hand is a game changer. Some of my go-to options include:
- Chia pudding — Packed with fiber and omega-3s.
- Non-fat Greek yogurt — A creamy source of protein that keeps me full.
- Chomps sticks — A quick, savory snack.
- Protein shakes — Perfect for busy mornings or a post-workout boost.
- Homemade energy bites — Simple to make and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Keeping these snacks prepped and ready ensures I stay nourished throughout the day.
Staying Hydrated
Water intake is so important, but it can be easy to forget. To meet my 100-ounce daily goal, I set timers on my phone as reminders to drink water regularly. It’s a small habit that has a big impact on my overall health and energy levels.
Meal Prep for the Whole Family
Sundays are my meal prep days. I stock the fridge with healthy options for the entire family and wash all the produce so it’s ready to go. Having pre-washed fruits and veggies makes it easy to grab snacks for myself and the kids, especially on busy weeknights. This simple habit ensures we’re all set for the week ahead and reduces the stress of last-minute meal planning.
Evening Activities with the Kids
After work, I dedicate evenings to being active with my kids. Whether it’s going for a walk, or playing at the park, it’s a great way to bond and stay active together.
Including the Kids in My Fitness Routine
On days when my schedule gets thrown off (which happens often with mom life!), I include my kids in my exercise plans. They get to see mom prioritizing her health, and it’s a fun way to spend time together. I focus on steps and strength training so whether it's completing a family walk or setting up my yoga mat and doing some weighted squats they are always excited to participate!
Always Having a Plan B
Flexibility is key as a mom. I always have a backup plan for days when things don’t go as expected. Having alternatives helps me stay on track without added stress. Having the fridge prepped with pre-washed produce also goes a long way for throwing together a quick, balanced meal for nights that don’t go as planned. For more inspiration, check out my blog post for quick and easy dinner ideas to support PCOS.
Final Thoughts
Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and self-care isn’t about perfection; it’s about finding what works for you and your family. By setting up small systems like meal prep, scheduling workouts, and including my kids in my health journey, I’ve been able to maintain my well-being while juggling everything else. It’s not always easy, but taking care of myself ensures I can be the best version of myself for my family. Remember, every little effort counts, and it’s okay to adapt as needed. Moms are resilient, and with a little planning, we can make it all work!