Do you ever find yourself so tired that you are unsure if you'll even make it to the bed? I bet you're like me and when you find yourself at that point, you self medicate with coffee! Well, sister friend I'm here to tell you that is not the way you should live. You shouldn't survive one caffeine fix to the next! I want to share with you a few practical things you can do to take care of my body.... Try your best to implement these 5 practices in your life!

1. Keep a Calendar!

As obvious as this sounds for anyone, it can be easily forgotten. I know, you think you've got it all under control and the last thing you need is a "smart phone" notifying you that you should be done with grocery shopping and on to the oil change by now but I promise it will change your life. There is nothing like a good dose of time management to help your day start and end with grace. Look ahead and as you do make a plan that can mesh easily with those concrete events on your calendar. For example if you know you are hosting a party in 3 weeks don't wait until the night before to go shopping, clean and decorate. Plan one task that will help ease your load each day leading up to the event. I have learned through the years that smart prep is the key to a successful party. Be consistent and this simple change will eliminate a mountain of stress!

2. Find time for YOU!

Pedicure! Pedicure! Pedicure! Invest in your feet girl! This very moment I am sitting in my bed enjoying soft feet! I came home from a busy day of party hosting and immediately put hot water in my tub and added eucalyptus soaking salt. Logan and I spent the next 30 minutes sitting on the side of the bathtub soaking our feet (I'm training my boys right)! We soak, scrub, exfoliate and moisturize! Oh, my it is the most heavenly experience... Then there are times when I pay someone else to do all the work. Sometimes, I just go sit in a local coffee shop, or curl up with a good book. Me time doesn't involved any of your tasks (cleaning, cooking, preparing etc.) it does however take intentional scheduling. You actually have to inform your family that this needs to become a priority.

3. Rest!

Sleep is such an important part of our overall wellbeing but it's often the most neglected one. I don't have to worry much about that because my body literally goes on strike when I'm tired. Sickness sets in, I get cold, I tend to get moody and sometimes feel like I can't move. It's a real deal ya'll! If there is any practice you are going to be diligent about, let it be rest! Now go enjoy some Zzzzzzzz's!!

4. Get up & GO!

Wake up before everyone else in your house! Drink your coffee, read a book, do devotion, start a gratitude journal, catch up on current events, pray, exercise etc. Take that extra time to ready your mind for the day and to do the things you find difficult to do when the kids are awake. Your 3:00PM self will thank you, trust me!

5. Make an effort!

I'm positive that somewhere in the world of google there is a survey that proves when you look good, you feel good. I can personally say that I am more productive when I take the time to care about my personal appearance. I once used the excuse that I was a busy Mom and didn't have the time to fix my hair... Later, I looked at myself in the mirror and I was so ashamed! Do whatever it takes, prepare the night before, wash your hair at night if you don't have extra time in the morning. There are many quick tricks that can help you along your journey.... It all goes back to proper time management!

I'm not perfect... Lord knows I am far from it and struggle on a daily basis to get myself together. I am doing my best to implement practical things in my life that will cultivate joy, peace, happiness and love. I want to live stress free and confidently. I truly believe this is an attainable wish, not just for me but for you too!

XOXO -Denisha