It’s not exactly breaking news that 2020 has been a tough year. If you live in New York, then you’re always facing challenges, and that was true before the pandemic. The rent is high, and the job market is competitive.
New York moms have a lot on their plates right now. They must take care of both their kids and themselves. That means figuring out how to stay mentally and physically healthy, while at the same time watching over their youngsters.
Here are some ways to remain balanced and on the right track as we approach 2020’s last few months.
Adjust Your Work Expectations
Unfortunately, millions have lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic, including many working New York moms. You might have:
- Been furloughed
- Had your hours reduced
- Lost your position entirely
None of those are good prospects. Maybe if you have a spouse or significant other, they still have their job, but you’ve gone from a two-income household down to just one.
This is a time when you’re going to have to stretch your budget in all areas, including food, clothing, recreational activities, etc. You’re probably looking for work, but you might not be finding something that seems right for you.
You might have to take on a position right now that’s not exactly your dream job. Maybe it doesn’t pay as much as you’d like, or it’s not quite in your field.
Now is a time that you have to be flexible, though. You need money coming in for the family. If you have to take a job you’re not in love with to tide you over, then so be it.
Meditate
Many moms report feeling stress right now, more so than usual. It’s no wonder, with the pressures that you are likely feeling.
Now may be a time to try meditation. Meditation:
- Allows you to relax and center yourself
- Costs you nothing, which is great if you’re on a tight budget
Don’t worry if you’ve never done it before. There are many free phone apps you might download that will guide you through it, or you can watch some handy YouTube videos.
You’ll have to get your spouse or co-parent to watch the kids for a few minutes so you can have some meditation time to yourself. You might get a neighbor to watch the kids if that works better.
You may want to meditate with your spouse or partner. This can be a way for the two of you to spend a little time together in companionable silence.
Try Yoga
Yoga is another excellent way to get back in tune with your body and quiet your overactive mind. If you haven’t been able to get to the gym lately, as so many New York moms haven’t, you’re probably overdue for a good workout.
With yoga, you can work up a sweat right in your apartment. All you need is a mat and some comfortable clothes.
Like meditation, you can find many YouTube videos that will teach you some basic moves. You don’t have to be super coordinated or flexible when you’re starting out. You can ask the kids to give you a little time to get a workout in, or they might even want to join you.
Take a Walk
Another way to get some exercise while also getting out of the house or apartment is to take a walk. You can do it solo or bring the whole family. This way, you can burn some calories, and the scenery change might do all of you some good.
If one of your kids is older, then you might have them watch the others so you can have some alone time walking around, or your significant other can come along.
Now is a good time for you two to talk about what you’re feeling. You might want to unburden yourself about thoughts and feelings you’re having with the pandemic, the presidential election, etc.
It’s a nice time of year in the city for walks, with the leaves changing color and a chill in the air. It costs nothing to take advantage of that.
Stay in Touch with Relatives
Maybe your relatives live in New York as well, or perhaps they’re elsewhere. Probably because of Covid-19, you have not been able to see them in a while.
If that’s true, then you likely miss them. You kids may miss their grandparents, cousins, etc. It’s not a bad idea to have weekly phone calls. You could also FaceTime with them so they can see all of your smiling faces.
You can talk to each other about what’s happening in your lives, share some anecdotes, or even vent about your job-hunting frustrations or whatever else is bothering you. You should be able to use your relatives as an emotional support network right now, and you can serve the same function for them.
Therapy
If you still feel like you need another outlet because of stress, it’s not likely you can see a therapist in-person right now. However, you can meet with someone via phone apps in many cases.
If you’re worried about the cost, then see if your health insurance will cover it. If you do not have health insurance at the moment, there are still some apps where you can speak to someone for free if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
You must talk to someone if you’re feeling too worried or unsure of yourself at the moment. Since you’re a mom, your children rely on you, and it’s scary for them if you can’t put a brave face on things.
This year is challenging for moms and families. However, it seems like things have to turn around. It’s important to remember that bad times don’t last forever.
If you can show your kids optimism during hard times, it’s a good lesson for them. It seems as though 2021 has to be a better year, and it’s just around the corner.