Waking up in a new world
LIFE seems to be slowly returning to some normality after the last 18 months and with that comes rushing around now the kids are back to school. Now we are all returning to work, planning for – dare I say it? – Christmas!
I felt nervous about starting September knowing that I would be returning to a busy life, juggling my family obligations and my working ones too while trying to sneak in that “me time”.
I really enjoyed being in my special bubble with my family over the summer. We didn’t fly abroad or do anything fancy but the quality time with each other was precious. Once they were all at school, nursery and work, the silence was almost deafening.
Now I know what you’re thinking: I shouldn’t be complaining, right? I mean having quiet time is blissful and often infrequent when you have small kids, but there is also this feeling of “OK, what now?”. As a mum you spend most of your time running around pleasing everyone. When it’s just you again it can be a strange feeling.
My working life has changed so much since Covid. I now work from home, which has its advantages and disadvantages. It means I am always there to do school and nursery drop-off and pick-up so I miss out on nothing when it comes to my children, which I’m incredibly grateful for.
On the flip side, I do feel lonely and at times question whether it is enough. I miss socialising and having a reason to put on make-up and a nice outfit. I live in my gym gear at home and rarely put any make-up on,
There are things I do which help me both mentally and physically. My lovely friend Hayley has got me into creating a “Priorities List” where I write all the things I need or want to do and I can cross them off as I go. Just writing it all down feels like therapy!
I walk 10,000 steps every day even when it’s raining – you can’t beat the fresh air and the benefits of vitamin D and we have some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. I do three strength sessions a week combined with some slower yoga classes like Yin and Candlelit yoga, I eat well, lots of protein and good foods and I limit sugary treats.
We need to remember we have all been through so much over the past two years and life can feel tough especially as winter approaches, so looking after yourself even if it’s just something small that helps you is essential. ■■ Kelly Pegg is a journalist and broadcaster working in radio for more than 15 years. She hosts the podcast The Hot Mess Mums’ Club with TV presenter Jenny Powell, on Instagram at @ thehotmessmums