Namita Nayyar:
Have there been moments when you felt overwhelmed? If yes, how did you reset or cope during those times?
Shannon Leach:
I have ABSOLUTELY felt overwhelmed at times. I don’t think there is any mom who could say no to that! Especially with 5 young kids (when I had my twins, we then had 5 under 5 for a few weeks). In those moments, I would do deep breathing, remind myself how grateful I am for my kiddos (they were all a result of IVF due to my infertility).
Yoga and meditation. Anytime I can get on a couch or chair with my kiddos in my lap is calming, too… Whether that is just to cuddle or read to them. I also found it was really important to take a minute (or a few moments) to myself in times of overwhelm. Self-care is SO necessary as a Mom — We give so much of ourselves to others… It is important to give back to ourselves.
Namita Nayyar:
What does a typical workout look like for you, and how do you adapt it on days when time is limited?
Shannon Leach:
A typical workout for me is usually either weight lifting or cycling. I like to throw yoga in there to maintain mobility, and, also love to take a long walk to listen to a good podcast or audiobook. It is my ME time. I actually am currently taking a break from exercise, though, as my hormones were really out of whack. So for now, it’s short walks or a short yoga session to allow my body to heal. Even when I’m on a time crunch, I also feel like something is better than nothing — Whether that’s a short spin class (at home), or short lift, or a short walk. I love to move my body in some way on most days.
Namita Nayyar:
Nutrition often gets overlooked in busy schedules—what strategies help you maintain healthy eating for yourself and your family? Do share tips on meal planning, for kids, and your own self?
Shannon Leach:
Nutrition has always been a priority for me as I know it plays a huge role in my overall health and well-being. It impacts my energy levels (and ability to keep up with my busy kids and busy schedule), and I want to be the type of Mom that can keep up with my children (and one day, hopefully, grandchildren, too).
I’m all about balance — I make sure my kids have a protein, fruit, and veggie with each meal, but, if the main course is mac n’ cheese or chicken nuggets, so be it. We allow dessert nightly — nothing is off limits. For me personally, these last few months have been healing as far as it comes to nutrition is concerned. For too long, I fell into the trap of different “diet trends,” whether it was fasting or low-carb nutrition plans. Now, I eat in the same way I approach the way my kids eat. Nothing is off limits.
No foods are “good” or “bad.” I eat what sounds good and is nourishing for me. Meal planning does make a HUGE impact, though, and always has. For the days I am working, I’ll make my lunch and snacks the night prior to ensure I have everything I need to get me through the work day. We have staple meals that we often will have each week (marinated chicken thighs, roasted veggies, and roasted potatoes), and also try to keep it simple on week nights.
I try to get more crafty and creative with meals on the days I don’t work or on the weekend. Variety is the key!
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
