Breathe Mama Breathe

The scientifically proven benefits of mindfulness are amazing: boosted memory, improved focus, less stress, more happiness in relationships, and more control. What mom doesn't need that in her life? Shonda Moralis, a psychotherapist and mindfulness practitioner, found with two kids she just couldn't devote 20 or 30 minutes to her practice every day-it was too daunting and pretty much impossible. She could take five minutes to sit quietly, listen to her breathing, and meditate. Five minutes was doable. However, there are also times throughout a busy day when stress gets the best of us. Shonda Moralis realized there was a way to turn those stressful moments-or even just the mundane ones-into an opportunity to breathe more mindfulness into the day.

In Breathe, Mama, Breathe: 5-Minute Mindfulness for Busy Moms, Shonda outlines her two-part program where moms first learn the basics so that they can incorporate just five minutes of dedicated mindfulness practice into their routine. Part II includes over 60 mindful breaks, when a moment to reset and refocus is a necessity. By taking a mindful break, moms can stressless, connect with their families more, and take care of their own well-being:

• Eat a mindful breakfast-no phones, no TV, not even the newspaper.
• Try a three-breath hug-hug your child and take three deep breaths together.
• Wake up with gratitude-let your first thought be one of intention, thankful for your health, family, coffee, and the shining sun.

Combined with five minutes of dedicated mindfulness practice, mindful breaks will continue the calm. Plus, Shonda tells about her own improvements since becoming a mindful mama and the benefits real moms have shared.