As a PANS mom, I’m not sure when we haven’t been in crisis lately. What has helped me survive being in crisis?
It all boils down to simple things that help me put myself first (even if it’s only for a few minutes):
❤️ I keep my nervous system regulated with daily meditation, tapping, deep breaths, journaling, gratitude, or affirmations…or all of the above. The last thing my child needs is for me to be in fight or flight too!
❤️ I keep my body functioning at an optimum level by drinking enough water (1/2 my weight in ounces), feeling the sunshine on my face for a few minutes, eating before having caffeine and not overdoing it with sugar or alcohol. Extreme stress takes it’s toll on the body (trust me, I know) so I stay as healthy as I can. If I can throw in a workout or walk, even better!
❤️ I keep my brain busy to avoid increasing anxiety by worrying needlessly. I like to pop in my AirPods and listen to an audiobook or 80’s music while I make breakfast and crush pills into chocolate pudding. Mantras also help when I can’t listen to something. It’s crazy how simply repeating something positive in my heads keeps me calm.
❤️ I keep my heart full by checking in on another mama. I know, it makes no sense, right?? Check in with another mama when I am barely treading water?? 𝙔𝙚𝙨. I like to call it #momitforward. I will send a simple text saying 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 or 𝘐’𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 to get out of my own shit for a split second and to connect with another human – a mama who likely needs to feel connection too.
So, here’s my question for you…how are you, mama?
