Being a parent is one of the toughest jobs that has ever existed. There are so many things to juggle - work, household chores, and taking care of the kids. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed out. That's where mindfulness rushes to the rescue.
Mindfulness means directing your attention to you present moment. You don't do this by judging yourself or your situation. It can be a great tool for parents to become better at their job.
You have a busy life. There are social, family, workplace and other responsibilities. When you have a less than wonderful experience with your child, it can be easy to respond incorrectly if you can’t remove outside influences and just be in this present moment with your child.
The same is true if your child is sharing a particularly positive experience with you. Your child could believe you are ignoring her or otherwise being dismissive if your mind is somewhere else.
Mindfulness meditation can help parents become more present and attentive with their children. With so many distractions in our lives, it's easy to get caught up in our own thoughts and miss out on the small moments with our kids. By practicing mindfulness, parents can learn to be more aware of their surroundings and pay attention to their children without distraction. This lets parents make deeper connections with their kids and build stronger relationships.
What Can I Do to Become a Better Parent through Mindfulness?
If you're new to mindfulness, there are a few simple practices you can start with. The easiest method is to simply focus on your breath for a few minutes each day. Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted and sit comfortably. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Then focus on the sensation of your breath as it goes in and out. When your mind wanders, slowly bring your attention back to your breath.
Another proven practice to be a better parent is to practice mindful listening.
Choose a time when your child wants to talk to you, and give them your full attention. Put away any distractions, such as your phone or computer, and really listen to what they have to say. Try to listen without judging them, and ask open-ended questions to encourage them to share more.
You can also practice mindful parenting by taking a moments to breathe deeply before reacting to a difficult situation with your child. This can help you respond in a more calm and measured way, rather than reacting out of frustration or anger.
Mindfulness is a powerful tool for parents to become better at their job. By practicing mindfulness, parents can become more present and attentive. They are better listeners, more patient and compassionate, and they display healthy behaviors for their children to emulate. Take a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness meditation and see how it can transform your life as a parent, and how it helps your child grow in a healthy way.