The older we get, we realise that whether it’s down to our moms’ life experience or mysterious psychic powers (or a bit of both) they are always right – at least 99.9% of the time anyway.
Chief among their many fields of expertise seems to be ‘family health’. Features writer Jade Crocket has gathered up some wise words from moms ahead of Mother’s Day.
“Don’t skip meals”
Pictures: iStock.
I wasn’t allowed to leave the house until I’d eaten breakfast, was spoilt with packaged lunches, and came home to meat and three veg dinners. But, these days I, and I’m sure many other women, have been guilty of skipping a breakfast here and a lunch there to save time or drop a few kilos fast. But it’s a really bad idea!
Missing just one meal causes your blood sugar to take a dive, leaving you feeling tired and generally unwell. Also, your body goes into “starvation mode” to conserve what fuel it is getting and your metabolism slows – in fact, making it more difficult to burn-off those extra calories.
“Get a good mattress and a job you enjoy”
We spend eight hours sleeping and eight hours working – that’s most of our days, so during that time we should be happy!
Studies have shown that adults who get less than seven hours of sleep a night have more difficulty concentrating, experience mood problems and are more prone to illness. While according to Harvard and Stanford researchers (and mom) work stress can shave up to three years off our lives.
“Take a deep breath”
Amid floods of tears, sniffles and inaudible ramblings we’ve all heard our mom’s soothing, yet firm: “Just take a deep breath and then tell me what happened.”
As it turns out, deep breathing increases oxygen to the brain and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which in turn slows our heart rate and promotes a state of calmness.
The next time you’re in a bit of a flap, try “equal breathing”. Inhale through your nose for a count of four, hold for a count of four, and then exhale for a count of four – all through the nose.
“A little of what you fancy does you good”
Life’s too short to deny yourself the things you really enjoy – including a slice of homemade triple chocolate cake from mom!
If we feel deprived we’re more likely to fall off the wagon, binge and feel seriously guilty later. So the key is moderation.
Mindfully eat smaller servings – especially of high fat, sugary foods – enjoying each mouthful, so you feel treated and satisfied. Also, plan little indulgences ahead of time so you don’t waste calories on things that aren’t worth it.
