Prioritizing Health and Wellness:

Jessica Elkins
Family Matters
Published in
4 min readJul 18, 2023

Quick Tips for Busy Moms

Balancing work and family life can be a juggling act, leaving little time for self-care. However, your health and wellness are essential to maintaining the energy and vitality needed to tackle everyday challenges. In this guide, we will explore simple yet effective ways to prioritize your well-being, and we’ll include two healthy, inexpensive recipes with five ingredients or less each. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can take care of yourself and your family without breaking the bank.

  1. Nourishing Your Body: Quick and Wholesome Meals

As a busy mom, finding time to cook nutritious meals can be tough. However, eating healthily doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here are two delicious and budget-friendly recipes, each with only five ingredients or less:

Veggie Stir Fry

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, etc.)
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • - Cooked brown rice (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. 2. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Drizzle soy sauce over the veggies and sprinkle with garlic powder. Stir well to coat evenly.
  4. 4. Serve the veggie stir-fry over cooked brown rice for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Greek Yogurt Parfait

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
  • - 1/2 cup granola
  • - 1/2 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  • - 1 tablespoon honey
  • - 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pistachios)

Instructions:

  1. In a glass or bowl, layer the Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh berries.
  2. 2. Drizzle honey over the top for added sweetness.
  3. 3. Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top for a crunchy texture and healthy fats.
  4. 4. Enjoy a quick and delightful Greek yogurt parfait as a healthy snack or breakfast option.

2. Sneaking in Exercise: Staying Active On-The-Go

Between work and family responsibilities, finding time for exercise may seem impossible. But fear not, as there are ways to stay active even with a busy schedule:

  • Incorporate mini-workouts: Sneak in short bursts of physical activity throughout the day. Do squats while waiting for water to boil or calf raises while washing dishes.
  • - Family walks: Take evening walks with your family after dinner. It’s a great way to bond while staying active.
  • - Park far away: When running errands, park farther from the store entrance to get some extra steps in.
  • - Dance parties: Have impromptu dance parties with your kids. It’s a fun way to burn calories and create lasting memories.

3. Prioritizing “Me” Time: Self-Care and Relaxation

Amidst all the responsibilities, it’s crucial to make time for self-care and relaxation. Here are some simple ways to recharge and unwind:

  • Wake up a little earlier: Start your day with a few moments of quiet reflection, deep breathing, or meditation.
  • - Read a book: Set aside a few minutes each day to read a book you enjoy.
  • - Pamper yourself: Take a warm bath, put on a face mask, or indulge in a DIY spa session at home.
  • - Unplug from screens: Reduce screen time before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

4. Building a Support Network: Lean on Others

As a working mom, it’s essential to have a strong support network. Reach out to family, neighbors, or fellow parents for help when needed. Building connections with other moms can be a valuable resource for sharing advice and experiences.

As a working mom, our health and well-being are essential not just for ourselves but also for your family. By making small yet impactful changes, you can prioritize your health, even on a busy schedule. Remember to nourish your body with simple and healthy recipes like the veggie stir fry and Greek yogurt parfait. Stay active by incorporating short bursts of exercise throughout the day and finding ways to involve your family. Lastly, remember to take time for self-care and relaxation, and don’t hesitate to lean on your support network when needed. By prioritizing your health and wellness, you’ll find yourself better equipped to handle the joys and challenges of motherhood.

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Jessica Elkins
Family Matters

Jessica is a published author who has ghostwritten two novels. She’s now a homeschooling, work-from-home mom of 3 who is trying to achieve a balance.