Getting out of the house in the morning during the weekdays could be a challenge if you are not well prepared. Having children to feed, leaving them to school, also getting ourselves ready could be a bit of a headache. Keeping a journal or a planner is helpful to refrain from stress and get yourself prepared during such situations. I have listed out a few routines that have helped to minimize morning stress:

Meal planning :

Have you ever stood in front of the fridge wondering what you need to cook today? Or have you ever felt that it’s time to start cooking some healthy meals and avoid outside food? Then meal planning could be something for you. Whether you need to plan for a single person or for the whole family, meal planning could be a saviour. Every Friday plan for the upcoming week’s meals and accordingly you can buy vegetables or other stuff. This will also help to avoid wasting excess food.

Wake up early:

It is very stressful to rush ourselves or our sleepy kids to school in the mornings. Neither parents nor children would have a productive day. You need to be fully awake before starting the day. Waking up early gives you enough time to prepare your mind for the day.

Prepare night routine:

There is a saying that a mom’s day starts in the evening the day before. We need to prepare everything beforehand, that is needed for the next day, to reduce morning stress. For example: keeping the school uniforms ready, and cleaning the house before going to bed. If your children are old enough then it’s important to include them in keeping their things ready for the next day. Other night routines could include:

• Cutting vegetables for lunch/dinner
• Pack bags
• Pre-breakfast preparation. As I am an Indian we usually make dosas in the morning. So its important to prepare the batter the day before.
• Clean the house, especially the kitchen. Its always good to wake up in the mornings to see a clean home.

Have ‘me’ time in mornings:

Every mother, irrespective of whether you have to go to work or not, it is important for mental peace to start the day by spending some time with self. It could be reading a good book, drinking a cup of coffee, writing a journal, exercising or it could also be facial make-up as long it makes you happy.

Leave on a good note:

Your day would be more brighter when you wish each other a great day and express how much you love them. Leaving on a good note helps you to boost your confidence and face new challenges.