Peaceful Parenting

Peaceful parenting… interesting combination of words, isn’t it? Depending on the age(s) of your child/children that may seem difficult and at times impossible. What would it look like if we went out of our way to add peace and peacefulness to our parenting? Could it help keep us centered and feeling more calm ourselves? Would we respond differently to our children if we were feeling more peaceful? Likely the answer to these questions is ‘Yes.’

There are many different things that we can do to parent from a more peaceful place. BREATHE. It is amazing the difference a few slow, deep breaths can make in how we feel and how we respond to situations. Feeling frustrated? Try doing a few deep breaths before reacting. Maybe implementing slow, mindful deep breaths throughout the day as well.

BE PRESENT. When it feels like there is no time or twenty other things you should be doing, stop. Stop and be present with your child/children. Get on the floor and play with them. Spend time drawing together or playing make believe. It is amazing what a difference a few minutes of uninterrupted, focused time can do for our children and how much it can affect the way that we feel connected to one another.

Practice good SELF-CARE. Parenting from a peaceful place is something that can be much easier to do if we feel that we are being taken care of as well. A well-rested, well-fed person is going to respond to situations in a calmer way than someone who is not tending to themselves and their needs. By taking care of ourselves, we are taking care of the people around us.

Do not underestimate the power of implementing small exercises into daily life.

Small changes can have big effects.

 

Written by Nicole Uzendoski, MSW, LICSW