Ground Yourself During a Tense Parenting Moment

How do you collect and ground yourself during a tense parenting moment? How will you survive the storm of your child's big emotions?  This is a re-release of our most popular episode. Try a visualization, meditation or breath pattern and practice until it becomes part of you. Nichi's pug Millie sat in on our chat, and gives her comfort when life is a challenge. I know you will relate to Nichi when she asks, "How do I extract myself from my kids so I can ground myself? I need something quick that helps in the moment."  My answer isn't earth shattering...  Repeat a simple practice that anchors you. Your anchor can be any visualization, meditation or breath pattern that you practice a lot until it becomes part of you. Then, you can reach for it to anchor you when the seas get stormy, even if you can't leave your kid in the moment. Practice when you're alone, then during a calmer time with your kids, then during the aftermath of a tough moment, and finally during a meltdown. It is not instantaneous. Give yourself permission to be imperfect and practice. You are the one you can most readily affect, so keep the focus on yourself. Nichi and I discussed some systemic issues that parents are often made to believe we are responsible for. It can make parents feel really lonely, but you are not alone in these struggles. I’m so happy Nichi agreed to share our chat with you. Her four-year-old made an adorable appearance at the end. Cherished Memory Meditation:  Recall a time you felt held and seen by someone you trust. A time you felt supported, beloved and cherished in your wholeness for exactly who you are. Reach back as far into your past as you need to. Settle your body back into this memory. Recall the sensory impressions associated with that memory. Plant yourself or bathe yourself in the memory. Drink it in. Imagine filling up with the memory. Keep the same memory and practice it often to activate neural pathways.  Remember, you are not alone.  I’m not trying to fix anyone’s parenting challenges, I have enough of my own. But it can really help to know we’re not alone. Others are dealing with the same issues and trying to be better parents any way they can. Find a way to connect with other parents.  I would LOVE to hear from you. Leave a voice message to inspire a future episode!  Mindfully Parenting Atypical Kids podcast is a baby, and it needs your love to grow! If you appreciate the strategies, connection, and support here, help it reach other parents! Please go to Apple Podcasts and give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review.