Gems of Motherhood~ Letters to a Mama: 20ish Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Mom Sample

Gem #5

Dear Mama, you have to REST…

Many of us have heard the saying “you gotta nap when baby naps”. This sounds great in theory, but I can certainly say it wasn't always the case for me and many other mothers I know. When our baby is napping, we generally take this opportunity to hand-wash their laundry, sanitize bottles, pick up toys, or even take a bathroom break. It may look different in each season of motherhood, and it may also depend on your family dynamic. But whatever your situation, know that you deserve to replenish your cup so you can pour a healthy flow of love and energy into caring for your child/children. Sometimes rest may look like simply putting up your feet and making the grocery list or reading a few verses from the Psalms to encourage your Mama heart. Doing some light stretches and deep breathing and replenishing yourself with a healthy drink or light meal are also ideal ways to honor your mind and body. Remember: you're not only doing this for yourself, but for the well-being of your little one. And this all brings honor to God.

One of my favorite and most-used scriptures in this season of motherhood, are words spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ, found in Matthew 11:28. He invited the people of Israel into a relationship with Him, as they were being oppressed by the laws being enforced by the Pharisees. His words still anchor us today and invite us to put down all the weight of our worries and concerns, in exchange for His easy yoke. This simply means, Jesus gives us a measure of grace to nurture our children, through every season.

I remember when my older daughter was about 3 or 4 months old - I wanted her to take a nap, so I held her on my chest, reclined on our couch, and we both fell asleep. I made sure to secure her on my inner arm and place some pillows on the ground, just in case of any sudden turns or tumbles! It was mid-summer, so we both woke up clammy, but it was all worth it! Momma and baby bonding time, plus Momma got a nap in. I tried to have these moments as much as I was able, and until she got too heavy for my chest!

Try and establish your own routines, depending on your family dynamic. And remember Gem# 1: give yourself grace and take baby steps. Some methods may work better in one season than others. But please try until you find your rhythm, and if you have access to help, please reach out for a hand or even two (we will discuss community in a later chapter). It will all pay off in the short term. A healthy mom equals a healthy and happy child. And yes, it IS possible for you.

Journal Prompt: What ways can you implement a few moments of REST within your daily schedule? Look at the areas where you find available openings: perhaps when you find yourself doom scrolling on social media, or perhaps doing an extra chore that can be delegated or rescheduled? There is grace for you, Mama. I am rooting for you!

This devotional is an excerpt from Gabrielle Marcia's upcoming book titled: "Gems of Motherhood: Letters to a Mama: 20-ish things I wish I knew before becoming a Mom." Please follow this page for release date information!

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