Hello everyone,

I’m Nora, a working mom, and today, I want to share with you how I find moments of peace and presence amidst the whirlwind of daily responsibilities. As a working mom, the juggle between career, parenting, and personal time can feel overwhelming. But over time, I’ve learned that practicing presence isn’t about finding more time; it’s about making the most of the time you have. Here are three ways I integrate mindfulness into my bustling life:

1. Morning Rituals

Every morning, before the sunrise and the start of family routines, I give myself a gift—the gift of stillness. It starts with a simple five-minute meditation. Sitting quietly, I focus on my breathing and allow my thoughts to pass like clouds in the sky. This brief practice helps me center myself and prepares me mentally to face the day ahead with calm and clarity.

After meditation, I spend a few minutes stretching. As I move, I focus intently on each stretch, which muscles I’m engaging, and how my body feels. This not only helps in reducing physical tension but also anchors me in the present, away from the digital distractions that often vie for my attention.

2. Mindful Commuting

My commute to work is typically laden with traffic and, previously, frustration. However, I’ve transformed my commute into a time for presence. I started by turning off the car radio and putting my phone out of easy reach. This silence allows me to focus on the act of driving—observing the surroundings, feeling the steering wheel in my hands, and noticing the rhythm of my breath. Sometimes, I play soft, instrumental music that doesn’t demand my cognitive attention, enabling me to stay mindful of the moment. This practice turns what was once a stressful part of my day into a surprisingly peaceful experience.

3. Engaged Evenings

Evenings are family time, and it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of dinner, homework, and bedtime routines. To practice presence, I’ve started engaging more deeply with my children during these activities. During dinner, we have a rule: no screens at the table. We talk about our day, share stories, and listen actively to each other. This not only strengthens our relationship but also helps all of us to be more in the moment, appreciating our time together.

When helping with homework or during bedtime, I make a conscious effort to focus solely on my child. I listen closely, respond thoughtfully, and ensure that my phone is away, so my attention isn’t divided. This focused interaction enriches our time together, making even routine activities special and meaningful.

In Conclusion

Practicing presence has transformed how I experience my day. It has taught me that mindfulness isn’t just a practice but a lifestyle. By incorporating these small, intentional acts into my daily routine, I’ve found that peace isn’t as elusive as it once seemed, even in the busiest times.

To all the fellow parents juggling multiple roles, remember that presence is possible, even in small doses. It’s about quality, not quantity. I hope my experiences inspire you to find moments of peace in your own daily routines.

Warm regards, Nora