Do You Have Enough Energy?

It seems that one thing a lot of moms have in common is: not having enough energy.

In looking at my own life and in talking with other moms, I think it can be due to a lot of factors. Things like hormonal changes, sleep disturbances, having too much to do, etc can all play a role.

Of course there are sometimes medical explanations like low thyroid function - this is actually pretty common postpartum and the symptoms are very similar to "normal" postpartum life so a lot of moms don't seek help. Other medical problems would include anemia or depression.

But I think for so many of us, we feel tired because our batteries aren't being charged often enough. We don't get our social needs met and we also don't do things that refresh us.

Investing in your social life can bring you more energy. Instead of feeling guilty about taking time away from the kids and your work to just play and have fun, view it as an investment.

It's funny - men don't seem to have this problem do they? :)

Another big thing we overlook as moms is exercise. Even though it wears you out, exercise really boosts your energy levels. Lately I've been doing a lot of walking. I've made it a goal to walk one mile every day and have hit it 4 or 5 times a week. I have a big calendar on my office wall and I mark it with a big "E" when I exercise.

The Curves where I used to own a membership closed down recently. I was disappointed about that because the machines really toned me up. But walking does a lot for my overall energy levels. It also makes me feel far less stressed out. It's simple, cheap and quick... and the kids can come along too.

What kinds of things do you do to keep your energy high?