Life is full, chaotic, noisy, and deeply beautiful. But to be honest, it can also be very stressful.
As a mother of five, including triplets, I’ve discovered a few personal, go-to techniques that help me stay grounded, calm, and centred amidst the mayhem. I am not claiming to be a stress expert by any means but these techniques may just take the edge off.
1. Walking Barefoot on the Earth (Earthing)
Living in the stunning valley of Hebden Bridge, I’m lucky to be surrounded by nature. One of the most healing practices I do is walk barefoot on the grass or forest floor.
Why it works:
This connects you to the Earth’s natural energy, helping to lower cortisol (the stress hormone), regulate your nervous system, and reduce inflammation.
Tip: Even five minutes in the garden or park can bring an immediate sense of calm.
2. Breathwork
Breathing consciously is like flipping the switch on your nervous system. I do this daily, usually on the loo!
Try this:
Inhale for 4 counts → Hold for 4 → Exhale for 6.
Repeat for 3–5 minutes.
It helps regulate your emotions, release tension, and stop overwhelm in its tracks.
3. Herbal Teas
My favourites are Green tea, chamomile, and nettle. These herbs are gentle, nourishing, and calming.
Why it helps:
Green tea contains L-theanine, a natural compound that promotes calm focus without drowsiness. Nettle supports stress-weakened adrenals and replenishes minerals and chamomile which contains apigenin, this is an antioxidant that binds to specific receptors in the brain, potentially promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
How I use it:
A daily ritual, steep, sip slowly, breathe deeply.
4. Gratitude Journaling – Finding Calm in the Chaos
Instead of focusing on everything going wrong, I take a moment each day to write down what’s going right. It could be something simple like a quiet cup of tea, a cuddle from my kids, or just the fact that I made it through the day.
Why it helps:
Gratitude journaling shifts your brain from survival mode to appreciation mode. It’s proven to reduce stress and boost your mood, even in the middle of motherhood mayhem.
How I do it:
- I write 3 things I’m grateful for each day
- I reflect on one moment that made me smile
- I remind myself: “Progress, not perfection”
Bonus tip: Keep your journal beside your bed so you can reflect at night, or next to your kettle for a calming tea + gratitude ritual.
5. Dance
I love to dance! Whether it’s in the kitchen while making dinner or a quick solo session in the living room, dancing helps me release tension, shift my mood, and reconnect with joy. It’s one of my favourite ways to instantly lift stress.
6. Saying ‘No’ Without Guilt
This took me years to learn and to be honest, it is still a work in progress. But it’s one of the most liberating stress relief techniques I know.
Why it helps:
Protecting your time, space, and energy is essential for mental health. Every “no” to overwhelm is a “yes” to yourself.
Start small:
No to another school committee. No to that thing you should do but don’t want to. You’re allowed.
7. Quiet Moments of Presence
Even just a few minutes alone in silence, with a cuppa and no distractions, can reset your nervous system. I tend to not get much of the above but I find these moments:
- While hoovering around the house
- Folding laundry quietly
- Washing the dishes
Presence is a powerful antidote to stress.
In the end, the effectiveness of these techniques can be as unpredictable as life itself. Some days, they might hit the mark, while other days you won’t have time to regulate your breathing, even in the loo! It’s all about recognising that this and being kind to yourself along the way. So, laugh at the chaos, roll with the punches, and remember: it’s perfectly okay to have off days.
