Emotionally Healthy Moms

“...each emotion serves as a compass, guiding us through the struggles and joys of motherhood.”

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.  (for the fruit of the spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10 NKJK

It is so important to recognize and validate our emotions. So often I’ve felt as if motherhood is one wild rollercoaster ride of emotions. It is important to acknowledge that every emotion we experience is valid and has a purpose. The apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5:8-10 to walk as children in the light, and part of walking in the light is to acknowledge and honor our emotions. Whether it’s feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or even moments of feeling deep joy and contentment, each emotion serves as a compass, guiding us through the struggles and joys of motherhood.

As mothers, we are always sure to take care of our children’s emotional well-being, but it is equally important to take care of our own emotional health. To embrace our emotions, we must create a safe space where we can process and express them. We must try our best to have emotional intelligence, which is the ability to recognize, understand and manage our own emotions and the emotions of others. Developing emotional intelligence not only benefits us, but empowers us to guide our children in understanding and managing their own emotions.  Ephesians 5:9 reminds us to bear fruit of light, which includes love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  We can nurture these fruits in our own lives and pass them on to our children.

By nurturing our emotional well- being we can better navigate the highs and lows of motherhood, allowing us to be present and loving towards our children. This nurturing can include journaling, talking to a therapist, attending classes with other parents or engaging in activities that bring us joy and peace.

Motherhood can sometimes feel isolating, especially if we are faced with challenging emotions.  Moms, always remember you are not alone in this journey. I am going to repeat that. YOU are not alone in this journey.

It is so important to stay connected to your core group, your like-minded friends, the ones who understand you and encourage you.

Action Steps:

• Take breaks to prioritize self-care, even a 20 minute bubble bath after the kids are asleep.

• Pursue a hobby, think of something you have always wanted to do, and find the time to make it happen.

• Simply reach out to your mom friends, sometimes all it takes is a 5 minute phone call or an encouraging word from a good friend.

• Schedule regular playdates, coffee dates, or outings with other moms. Set a set schedule. Just having activities planned can do wonders for your emotional well-being. (It gives you something to look forward to) 

Written by Marquel, a mom who’s been there. Blessings and Hugs!