Aromatherapy can really help you to chill out throughout the day, or to wind down before bed. Try releasing the scent of calming rose or tension-releasing basil by burning essential oils. Or you could add a few drops of stress-relieving bergamot or ylang ylang to your bath or shower gel and sprinkle your pillow with lavender for a good night’s rest. (If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your GP before using aromatherapy oils.)

Focus on all the good moments you have with your little one. Repeat positive affirmations about yourself every day (not necessarily out loud, unless you want to!) such as: ‘I can do this,’ or: ‘I am a good parent.’ Banish all negative thoughts that may reduce your confidence.

The best way to beat the stresses of parenthood is to keep yourself buoyed up and healthy, so you can face whatever your toddler throws at you with a smile. Try to steer clear of alcohol and cigarettes and instead aim for a nutritious diet, plenty of sleep, regular exercise and a positive mental outlook.

When you feel stressed, stop, breathe in through your nose for a count of two – lifting your diaphragm and raising your shoulders as you do so. Then immediately breathe out gently to a count of four, letting your shoulders drop and your arms go floppy. You should now feel invigorated and relaxed.

Running around after the little ones may be exhausting, but it’s still important for you to find time to exercise properly – and to get some crucial time to yourself! Exercise makes you feel good, keeps you fitter (obviously) and relaxes your muscles. Try low-impact swimming, a jog around the block, Pilates or an exercise video.

Eat foods that are beneficial to your emotional wellbeing, for example fish rich in good, essential fats and omega 3, like mackerel, sardines and salmon, as well as nuts, seeds, avocados, bananas and dried apricots. Adding these to an otherwise healthy diet should help you to feel happier and therefore more relaxed. And keep your energy levels up by eating food that releases energy slowly, like brown rice and pasta, and porridge.

Make sure you get out of the house for some exercise every day, even if it’s just taking your tot out in the buggy, or going to the local shops. Take some deep breaths and enjoy the world outside. Even in winter, fresh air is really refreshing, so make sure you get your dose.

Yes, it might be the last thing you want to do, but burning off some nervous energy by having a thorough dust and polish can help to lessen stress and anxiety. You can even get the kids to join in and make a game of it. Plus, having the house in order will give you one less thing to worry about!

Looking after young children can be isolating, so it’s important for stay-at-home parents and those who are on maternity leave to have an adult to talk to! If you feel like you might be close to losing your cool, ring a friend or family member, let off some steam, and share the highs and lows of looking after a toddler!

Laughter actually is the best medicine and one of the best ways to let go of tension as it relaxes the muscles. Ring a friend who can be guaranteed to have you in stitches or stick on a DVD of your favourite comedy show. Allow yourself to laugh out loud. You’ll be amazed at how good you feel afterwards.

When it’s been one of those days, there’s no better way to unwind than with a candlelit bath. Even if you can only spare 10 minutes, it’s better than nothing! Try getting the kids to bed early and run a proper bubble bath, light candles, apply a face pack and let the hot water soothe away all the day’s cares.

If you’ve been on your feet all day, a foot massage can really help to calm you – and it’s easy to do this yourself if your partner can’t be persuaded! Using oil or moisturiser, massage each foot for around five minutes at a time, ending with a stroking movement from the toes towards the knees. If you have any time left, try a soothing footbath, too.

Whenever you feel tense, try a simple meditation technique to calm your nerves and focus your mind on the activities ahead. Sit or lie down and allow your mind to go blank.
Imagine you are relaxing in your favourite place, maybe on the beach, or in a forest. In turn, let the tension seep out of each part of your body, starting with your feet and working your way slowly upwards to your neck, face and head. Stay there in your mind for a few moments, feeling completely relaxed.

When you have little ones, there are a million things that can aggravate and annoy you, especially if they’re playing up! But is it really worth getting angry about the little things? Why not save your energy instead.

Whenever you have a spare five minutes, put on your favourite music and sing out loud. Have a dance around the house with the kids and really let yourself go. There’s no better way to relieve tension. Some people also find classical music very soothing.

Have you noticed how simply everything you do takes twice as long when you have a toddler to contend with? It’s unavoidable, so instead of getting frustrated, allow yourself some extra time so you don’t feel rushed. Your children will react better to a calmer parent.

Try to find time during the day (a tall order, we know!) for a short five to 10-minute ‘relaxation break’. Find somewhere quiet, allow your thoughts to slow down and let go of the tension in your neck and shoulders. Enjoy the silence or have some relaxation music playing in the background. Both you and your child will benefit from a daily ‘quiet moment’.

Sitting down comfortably and wearing loose clothing, close your eyes and try forming mental images of things, places or situations that you find peaceful. These could take many forms, from sunbathing on a beach to strolling through a wood, or picking a bouquet of beautiful, sweet-scented flowers. Try to use as many of your senses as you can, including sounds, textures, sights and smells. After a few minutes spent fully focused on what’s happening in your mind, you should feel more alert and relaxed.

Sometimes it’s good to write down your feelings, whether it’s to outpour the stresses and irritations of the day or to keep a note of good moments that you can then cast your eye back over in times of pressure! In fact, studies have shown that writing down three to five things that you feel grateful for (your tot’s first steps, a beautiful sunny day) once a week can really lift your level of happiness. Splash out on a journal to write it in.

Yoga can help with relaxation and wellbeing, as well as being a great way to tone your body and keep you supple and fit for all of the running around after your toddler! Try attending a local class at your nearest sports centre or gym. Alternatively, if you’re pressed for time, try a video, book or online yoga class and learn how to do it at home.

www.bbc.co.uk
www.relaxkids.com
www.singleparents.org.uk
www.nealsyardremedies.com
www.calmtime.co.uk
www.foodandmood.org
www.mayoclinic.com