“Parenting is one of the most challenging, demanding, and stressful jobs on the planet. It is also one of the most important. How it is done influences in great measure the heart and soul and consciousness of the next generation, their experience of meaning and connection, their repertoire of life skills, and their deepest feelings about themselves and their possible place in a rapidly changing world. Yet those of us who become parents do so virtually without preparation or training, with little or no guidance or support, and in a world that values producing far more than nurturing, doing far more than being.”
The Journey of parenthood is one of constant change, transition, adjustment and balancing of different needs and pressures. It is easy to lose perspective, become overwhelmed by emotions, and caught in worry and the frazzle of multi-tasking. When pre-occupied and stressed we are unavailable to ourselves and our children. We are disconnected from our own bodies, feelings and breath. Our ability to attune to our children and ourselves is diminished and we can become reactive in our words and actions.
Love, joy and wonder flow from momentary awareness. By being in the moment we bring balance, calm and connectedness to our lives. Developing the skills and practice of mindfulness is vital to the well-being of the family and all its members.