Maybe it’s because the baby’s crying, a toddler had a nightmare, or your preteen “forgot” their homework was due tomorrow. Or maybe it’s just the endless mental load keeping you up at night. Whatever the reason, moms are often the first to sacrifice their sleep—and it’s taking a toll. Let’s be real: kids are often the reason moms don’t sleep well. For one, the unfair burden of middle-of-the-night wake-ups tends to fall to moms more often than dads. Breastfeeding? That’s a 24/7 job. And let’s not forget the “MOM!” that echoes through the house at 2 a.m. because someone needs water, a hug, or can’t find their favorite stuffed animal. Tools like the “Fair Play” model can help create a more balanced approach to caregiving duties, ensuring that moms aren’t carrying the entire load alone. And if you don’t have a partner, leaning on your village—whether it’s a friend, family member, or paid support—can give you the break you need. If you’re still struggling, talk to your doctor about small lifestyle tweaks that could make a big difference. They may recommend tools like blackout curtains, melatonin, or mindfulness techniques to help you get the sleep you need. Prioritizing sleep as a mom isn’t selfish—it’s essential. As this latest study shows, irregular sleep can have serious consequences for your health, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions. But by making sleep a priority—whether through sharing responsibilities, creating a better sleep environment, or seeking professional support—you’re not just protecting your health. You’re modeling self-care and setting an example for your kids that rest is important for everyone. Because when moms get the sleep they need, everyone benefits. So tonight, set that bedtime, turn off your phone, and let the jazz play. You deserve it
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Tuesday, December 3, 2024