There are few women I know that haven’t struggled with their body image at one time or another. As mothers I think we struggle even more. The media constantly bombards us with vain messages that make us feel inadequate if we don’t have a size 0 waist and a perfect figure. After having a baby, let’s face it, few of us fit the mold. As a single mother it gets even harder. Finding time to shower is a challenge most days, let alone finding the time to exercise. It is often shoved to the side as other priorities take its place. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t eat at us though.
It’s time to take care of yourself again. The more you take care of yourself, the more energy you will have to take care of your kids. It may seem overwhelming. You may not even know where to start, but it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.
Remember when your mother told you breakfast was the most important meal of the day? She was right. This is what sets your metabolism for the day. Skipping this meal can actually make you gain weight! If you don’t have time to sit down and enjoy your meal grab a yogurt or a granola bar to eat on your way to work.
Avoid emotional eating. I never did this until I was a single mom. When Logan would go to his dad’s I’d curl up with a bowl of brownie batter on the couch and cry. Bad idea! Instead of turning to food, get out and go for a walk. It gives you some time to clear your head and you get a little exercise at the same time; win-win.
Remember that you don’t need to go to the gym to get exercise. As single parents, most of us can’t afford a membership anyways. You can work out in the comfort of your own home. In fact, why not get the kids dancing around with you? Exercising is a lot more enjoyable if you have your kids goofing off with you. It’s much more entertaining than doing sit-ups on your own, trust me!
Keep in mind that all things take time. If you don’t see results right away, don’t get discouraged. Even if you aren’t making the progress that you’d like, at least you are getting that little boost of energy with all those endorphins floating around!