Anna

I’ve got into the habit of doing the squeezes whenever I brush my teeth – but I’ve got a bit slack about fitting Kari Bø’s full routine into my busy days, so that’s probably why I’m not as in control as I could be. I know I need to dig up the DVD and get back on track – but not sure when I’ll find the time – or the energy.

Just tucked my daughter up in bed, but the baby is still going strong and I’m feeling worn out. Talk about squeezes – I’m the one who feels squeezed lately, as there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day for any me time. Just writing this diary feels like an indulgence!

Yesterday I lost track of time and had to practically run down the road with the buggy to collect my daughter on time from nursery school. That’s when I leaked. The dampness really caught me by surprise because over the last few weeks those sorts of incidents have been less frequent than before I started the exercises. I nearly forgot I had a problem! It reminded me that I still have some toning to do.

I’ve got into the habit of doing the squeezes whenever I brush my teeth – but I’ve got a bit slack about fitting Kari Bø’s full routine into my busy days, so that’s probably why I’m not as in control as I could be. I know I need to dig up the DVD and get back on track – but not sure when I’ll find the time – or the energy.

Alyssa’s suggestions and tips for Anna

Having young children is one of the most energy-draining times of any woman’s life. So, the first thing I would say is to take heart because it won’t be so relentless forever. It’s perfectly natural to have feelings of resentment towards your children, but when you feel a tinge of resentment because they need you constantly, try to remember how much love they give you in return, and why you had them in the first place. Motherhood does not, however, mean that you can’t look after yourself. Think carefully through your daily and weekly commitments and decide where your exercise routine could realistically fit. If your diary really is jammed from crack of dawn to nightfall, then it’s time to take a serious look at whether you are over-committed. You may have to drop something in order to prioritise your wellbeing. Anna, it sounds like your expectations of yourself as a mother and homemaker are very high. Are you trying to keep the house spotless and be a perfect cook too? Remember, it’s better to have an untidy house and a healthy body! Also remember that if you manage to get in some ‘Me’ time, not only will you be happier, but the rest of your family will benefit too. ‘Me’ time isn’t indulgence, it’s an important part of staying balanced and reducing stress so that you can be a loving mother. Don’t be afraid of asking family members or good friends to help out with the children so you can get a little time to yourself. Remember that people are often very happy to help if they can.