Chances are high if you’re a mother, you’re not taking good enough care of your health. We’re guilty of putting everyone’s needs above our own, too. But here are some easy ways we can all take small steps to improve our health.
This post is sponsored by Colgate.
If you are one of the few mothers who are successfully keeping their health high on their priority lists, we want to hear about it and give you a virtual pat on the back, so please leave a comment. But for the rest of us, we can use a few reminders.
I admit that I struggle every day with trying to get enough exercise and keep my sleep on a regular schedule. As a single mother trying to juggle everything, it feels almost impossible to get the sleep and exercise I know I need. So when the folks at Colgate asked me to share some tips for National Women’s Health Week, I decided this was a great time to remind other women like myself how we can make small changes to improve our health.
We all know sleep and exercise are crucial to our health but working enough of both into our schedules can feel overwhelming and cause us to give up entirely on looking after ourselves.
I’m guilty of the “all or nothing” mentality, are you?
But I want to encourage you to not fall into that trap of feeling hopeless about your health because you’re not making it the gym regularly and you’re not getting 8 hours of sleep every night.
Here are 7 easy things you can start doing today that will improve your health…
- Carry a water bottle with you everywhere.
And when you’re at home, have a tall glass of water near you at all times.
Drinking tons of water is one thing I do really well. It won’t solve all your problems, but it is an easy way to improve your health.
- Meditate.
I used to be intimidated by the concept of “meditating”. But there are simple ways to clear your mind with different meditation techniques.
I struggle with anxiety and about a year ago, I actually took a few lessons from a specialist who taught me a basic but powerful technique. Even though I don’t take as much time as I should to sit and meditate for 20 minutes at a time, I use the process to relax and clear my mind at various times such as while I’m snuggling with my girls at bedtime.
- Breathe in the scent of a lemon.
Our sense of smell is powerful. You can use essential oils and aromatherapy to help you relax and improve your mood, but if you don’t have any handy, simply cut open a lemon and breathe in the aroma.My daughter who struggles with ADHD and anxiety absolutely LOVES lemons. At homework time, a glass of water with some lemon juice helps her enormously.
It amazes me how even smelling a freshly cut lemon helps improve her mood.
- Keep a container of washed, cut-up veggies ready to eat in your fridge.
My youngest daughter prefers to eat her veggies raw, so I often have a bag of leftover carrots, cucumbers and broccoli in the fridge.
It’s shocking how much easier it is to eat a few extra vegetables during the day when they are already washed and staring at you when you open the fridge.
If you need a little dip to improve the taste, go ahead… it’s better than grabbing a cookie.
- Add Epsom Salts to your bath.
Adding epsom salts to a bath is an easy and relaxing way to treat yourself and improve your health at the same time. The magnesium absorbs through your skin and helps your muscles relax. There are numerous health benefits and it’s simple and affordable.
While I generally choose to shower for efficiency, I recently started a new habit of once a week soaking in a bath with epsom salts.
- Stretch.
Stretch your muscles — they need it. A few times throughout the day, take a few minutes to stretch. If you can put on a yoga video to follow, that’s even better. My favorite way to stretch my back is using a Chirp Wheel. But at the least, get down on the floor and do some basic stretches.
I find that it’s easy to do a little stretching while I’m down on the ground playing lego with my kids or watching TV together. And it’s a good way to let your kids see you taking care of yourself.
- Keep your teeth and gums clean.
Obviously you brush your teeth regularly — you’re an adult. But did you realize how important oral health is to your overall health?
The first time I learned about the correlation between oral health and heart health was when I took my dog to the vet. His poor oral health was literally affecting his heart. I was shocked.
I’ve always brushed and flossed regularly, but I still struggle with poor gums. In fact, about 15 years ago I had to have surgery on my gums to remove a patch from the roof of my mouth and transplant it on to the gums below my lower front teeth. It was literally the worst experience of my life. And I’m at risk of having to have the surgery again!
So I can honestly say how thrilled I am to have received a sample of Colgate Total’s New Gum Health Mouthwash which can provide advanced gum protection for 45% stronger, healthier gums. I will definitely continue buying and using it to try to strengthen my gums.
Even a small change like switching to a Colgate Total regimen can help improve your oral health. Remember… a healthy mouth is key to a healthy body.
Our sense of smell is powerful. You can use essential oils and aromatherapy to help you relax and improve your mood, but if you don’t have any handy, simply cut open a lemon and breathe in the aroma.
Share With Your Friends
It’s healthy to share 😉
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Photo Credits: Dollar Photo Club
Disclosure: Thanks to Colgate-Palmolive for providing me with products samples and sponsoring this post.
The information in this post is not to be considered medical advice.
Written by Susan Carraretto, co-founder of 5 Minutes for Mom
Talk with me: @5minutesformom and Facebook.com/5minutesformom
Pin with me at pinterest.com/5minutesformom
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We love using menthol crystals to make a homemade menthol rub. It’s a lovely way to relax and take care of yourself.
walking 10 miles a day
I am going to start drinking more water a day and use my Waterpik more often when I brush my teeth.
I’m going to try to walk some everyday !!
I drink more water!
staying active
Floss and oral irrigate more than once a day.
The lemon, I will start buying whole lemons and lemon juice and drink a warm cup of lemon juice at night.
I am going to drink more water
I really need to exercise more.
I plan to work on my fitness beyond the yoga mat to increase my strength and endurance!
I am going to breathe in the scent of a lemon.
You just reminded me – I have heard about drinking water with lemon, so I’m going to start doing that every morning – I think it’s supposed to be warm water!?!?
Thank You for the giveaway…I am getting 8 solid hours of sleep most nights !
I am going to eat healthier. We added 3 more beds to our vegetable garden. Being I prefer foods that I grow, I should have plenty of greens and tomatoes to eat.
Wow, I love blogs I stumbled on this one because of the give away ( not going to lie) but now I’m a follower. WhaT great pure do good blogging you rock!
I am going to be more active – more hiking and kayaking – things I enjoy so it isn’t something I dread.
I definitely need to drink more water. I need to start carrying a water bottle with me everywhere I go.
I am going to drink more water and eat more veggies.
I am going to try to practice yoga and add more fruits and vegetables to my diet.
I am trying to move more: daily walks and an exercise, stretching program.
I’m making sure to maintain great oral health.
I am going to be more diligent to floss at least daily. Plus I have started logging my food daily to be more aware of what I am eating.
I plan on walking a mile a day to help me get into shape
I am trying to add more water to my daily routine.
I’m going to get back to walking more…I lost 80 lbs that way and need to lose the rest!
I’m going to keep cut up veggies in the fridge for a quick, healthy snack!
I plan on eating healthier.
I am going to drink more and more water and consume less and less sugar!
Run a half marathon in under 3 hours in 6 mos
I’m going to drink mostly water, cut out the sugary drinks.
I’ve slowly gotten into meditation.
I am making better food choices and drinking plenty of water.
Walk more and drink more water.
I’m cutting out all fast food and sugars.
i already carry water everywhere i go, but i do need to work on flossing!
I’m going to start drinking more water. That is the one thing I always have such a hard time with. I’m really going to try this time!
I need to remember to start taking time to relax and breathe, meditate. I over look it most of my life and I am just running around in shambles and never fully calm or relaxed.
Along with drinking more water, I would also like to start soaking in an Epsom salt bath.
I am drinking more water.
i plan to take a yoga class.
I plan to commit to doing yoga more often.
I will meditate more often and remember to breathe properly.
to exercise more
I plan to start taking vitamins to improve my health
Drink more water.
To improve my health, I will eat in moderation.
Definitely drinking more water and eating more veggies!
I will start stretching daily.
I am going to try to learn how to meditate I have heard that it is great for your well being
I will exercise more.
Workout and get lots of fresh air.
I’m going to start exercising more often.
Drink more water!!!!
I’d like to focus more on me. I.e. destressing myself through meditation, regular exercise. My goal is to set strict time and space for that during the busy day. I’d also like to take the time out to cook and actively engage in healthy and eco friendly eating.
more tranquil mornings
I have been drinking more water.
Strength training!
Iam going to drink more water and get out for a walk everyday!!
I need to drink more water and I love the lemon idea to help relax
Get more sleep.
Pay more attention to my oral health.
My seven children are grown now and I have 10 grandchildren. Over the years raising them I took very little time for myself. Now that they are grown and out on their own, I have been working on my Bachelor’s degree in accounting and only have 6 more classes to go. I enjoy taking time for myself which still takes some getting used to, without feeling guilty, but it is getting easier over time. Good luck to everyone.
Drink more water
I’ve cut soda out completely…Only mostly water & less processed foods!
I’m practicing yoga and drinking more water to improve my health. I’ve also cut back on processed foods.
for me it is meditate i need to take a break and be zen.
I am going to maximize my water intake daily to stay hydrated.
cut back on meat, become a vegetarian
Cut back on sweets
I already started being healthier by stopping drinking soda and walking almost daily.
Where do I even start. I guess my first plan is to get more exercise. I get so busy, and my priorities never seem to be anyone else’s. But that is going to change. I am on it.
I will try to get me time-a challange with a baby!
I am going to add Epson Salts to my bath.
janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
I have been eating healthier and exercising more.
I plan on eating more healthy and drinking plenty of water.
I’m going to be sure to floss daily!
I need to start to carry a water bottle with me.
kport207 at gmail dot com
I am going to meditate to improve my health
Drink lots of water!
walk an extra time with the dogs so they have 2 walks aday
Stay active and drink more water 🙂
Exercise more and loose weight!
TRIM HEALTHY MAMA
One thing I can do is to eat a healthy breakfast.
Floss every day.
Eat lots more green vegetables and drink way more water
I’m going to cut down on processed sugars.
I have got to get active for even just 10 minutes a day, a fast walk, something. My sedentary life is killing me, literally and figuratively.
keep water with me at all times
I plan to drink more water!
I’m spending more money on my walking shoes. There IS a difference, and good shoes help me walk longer and farther.
Drink lots of water!
I’ve been getting more rest, and taking time out for myself when I get overwhelmed.
I am going to try to stay on the cardo machines a little bit longer.
More clean eating and focusing on preparing meals with fresh foods.
Thank you for the giveaway. I’d really love to improve my oral health and weight.
try to get 8 hours of sleep every night
getting plenty of sleep, drinking water and keeping my mouth healthy
Use mouthwash regularly and drink more water and less sugary drinks.
I am going to drink more water.
I need to get more sleep
awesome giveaway…Im going to drink more water! Although I work outside in south texas and drink lots of water, Now im going to drink even more!
I am going to start working out so I can lose some weight.
i am committing to getting outdoors and excercising with my boys every day after school
drink more water
I drink lots of water! 🙂
i always feel better when fully hydrated. I’m getting a new water bottle for the summer and taking it everywhere.
I work out every day using PiYo! Angela Stephens is my fitness coach. utotallyamazing dot com. i’m always energized and ready to take on the world 🙂
#utotallyamazing
#angelastephens
@angelastephens
I am drinking more water and earring more veggies! Of course better oral hygiene. Hd a root canal and crown in past 30 days… I could have prevented it1
I am eating better and exercising more
I am going to drink more water and walk more for my health. Thank you for this chance to win this awesome giveaway! connie danielson
I am keeping track of my calories to lose weight.
im trying to cut back on po
I will remember to take my vitamins every day.
I need to cut back on sugar. I eat WAY too much of it!
One thing to improve my health is to spend more time outdoors, and less time in front of the television snacking on foods! LOL.
I’ve cut way back on sugar in my diet and am doing well with having lots of fresh veggies to eat.
I have quit caffeine, and only drink pop a couple days a week instead of 1-2 cans a day. I’ve been drinking more water and eating less.
Listen to music. It can easily de-stress me and improve my overall mood.
I’m going to drink more water!
I’m trying to drink as much water as I can
I started Weight Watchers & have lost 50+ pounds. I just got a fit bit today to help with my fitness goals!
I have recently become a vegetarian and am working towards becoming vegan.
eat better, exercise more
I’ve lost 14 pounds in the last month walking and eating much less.
I am going to drink more water
Drink MORE water!
I’m willing to start immediately adding epsom salts to a bath! That will be a good place to meditate and calm down from the day.
I am moving more and sitting less. I have become more aware of this and try to park farther away, get up and out to walk and hike more often and encourage the family to join me.
I will drink more water.
I started to use a water drinking tracking app to help me get enough water. It reminds you to drink and you an enter what you have had throughout the day. You can also see your history up to 45 days.
I’m trying to do better on most of the suggested changes, but I’m especially working on eating better.
I’ve been working on keeping up a dental hygiene routine
to improve my health I am getting more sleep at night…8 hours.
I will get back to the gym.
I am changing up my exercise routine.
I need to watch what is going into my body.
I’ve been trying real hard to cut a lot of sugar out of my diet. I love sweets but they are not helping. I’m also trying to cut down on caffeine. It’s been pretty good.
I am trying to drink more water and eat a healthier diet.
I am making an effort to switch from soda to organic tea.
I need to exercise more regularly.
I have to get off my hind end and walk everyday. I know I sit far far too much.
I have started adding more fresh fruit and veggies (organic when possible) to my diet.
I am giving up diet soda
I am trying to eat healthier and have pretty much given up soft drinks…even diet ones.
stay healthy
I am looking to improve my weight and get more fit. Probably the biggest thing right now.
I recently started taking daily walks. Its for health reasons and relaxation.
Not feel guilty about getting extra ZZZzzs.
Carry a water bottle! I’ve been trying to drink 64 oz of water a day and it’s not easy.
I’ve been going on the treadmill 4 days a week for 40 minutes for the past several months!
I am trying to drink more water.
I am going to start riding my bike more.
I walk at least 3 miles every weekday morning.
I eat healthy foods, walk daily and drink water.
I vow to eat healthier and exercise more.
The main thing I do to stay healthy is a 30 minute walk 5x per week.
I am cutting out processed food and trying to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.
i have cut out most junk food=more exercise and drinking more water
I am always working on improving my health. I run 6 days a week and try to make healthy food choices, but I definitely NEED to drink more water!
starting to drink water instead of soda. thankyou, ken
I am giving up soda. It is so horrible for you, but addicting!
I will be walking more and working my way up to jogging.
I am feeding my family and I clean foods…no more processed or artificial foods. It’s more work on me but we find that food tastes better and we all have more energy and feel better overall!
I am going to start stretching more.
I’ve been drinking a lot of water & eating more organic foods to be healthier!
We’re centering our meals around fresh produce.
I’m eating less processed foods
I am trying to drink more water.
i am going to keep things simple
I have changed my eating habits along with a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
Reduce my intake of soft drinks, juices, and sports drinks that are full of sugar, and opt for water, milk and healthier options instead.
lots of walking.
Great piece. I definitely want to try the mouth wash. I’m trying to load up on fruits and veggies in our meals. It’s not always a spot on effort, but one can only try. Good luck with your surgery.
drink lots of water!
I like the idea of keeping a container of washed, cut-up veggies ready to eat in your fridge to avoid snacking on junk food
I’m always carrying a bottle of water with me…Especially living here in Arizona. It is so important!
I’ve been working on keeping up a dental hygiene routine.
brush-floss-repeat!