
Of course I remember some things—where I lived, what I did most days, what I hoped for in motherhood. But I cannot remember what it FEELS like to be me-before-kids.

Maintain good sleep hygiene.

7. Yoga, working out & meditation

Postpartum depression and anxiety is a common thread in motherhood. In fact…

Every mom, from the brand-new one still figuring out the car seat to the veteran wrangling a teenager’s attitude, deserves to hear that she’s doing a good job.

Thank you for the gift of health. Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for the gift of movement.

I just wished the world around me would stop and give me a moment to catch my breath.

I can't imagine having the patience or the stamina to survive all the demands of mom-life without a yoga practice.

That puzzle with all the missing pieces? Toss.

6. "How are your own/real children handling your adoption/foster care?"

Try not to worry–it will get easier. Eventually, your kids will even help you bend and reach toward whatever it is you need them to.

You are always with me. In those times when I lose my cool under frustration, like yesterday when Everett was whining and simultaneously the dog threw up all over the carpet, I can feel you witnessing it all. I can feel you helping me, calming me or laughing at the chaos and confusion you used to know so well.

Slowly but surely with time, everything will change.

What if mindfulness was something you could do right now, even as you are reading these words?

5. Explain to your child that everyone has a body boundary.

And why we need to use our words carefully.

When we speak things aloud, we give them power to shape our hearts and minds. Among all the books and podcasts and articles we read, we often overlook (as I have) the importance of recognizing and speaking aloud when we are simply happy.

A recent study gives us some scientific insight.