Tired and overwhelmed

[Doobydoobydooyeh]

I just don't know where to start! I work part time. Run my 2kids around here, there and everywhere. DH world long hours and commutes. I've had the day off today. Tried to have a nap cos I'm so tired but just lay there with my heart racing fast and couldn't switch off. I'm so so tired. I did have low iron and b12 acouple of years ago. I don't do any exercise cos I'm so unfit and just don't know where to start. Feel nervous to start! Want to eat healthily but again feel overwhelmed. Want to meal plan but struggle to think what we will all eat. Wanted a productive day today but haven't really achieved anything and have to go back to school in an hour.

I’m out the other end (dcs left Home!) but I do recognise that feeling and particularly those days! I was off and home alone (ie could get on with stuff) for the first time in months yesterday and I motivate myself with bribes V early start and I did go back to bed afterwards, however I bite sized tasks and pleasure! So half an hour Mumsnet, then 3 stressful personal admin calls (money) Luxurious bath/ deepclean bathroom. Treaty breakfast I prioritise buying for days off/ Strip beds. I put a load of errand stuff (recycling and dry cleaning) by the front door and left the house only when everything was done just in time to drop it off and treat myself to something I’d seen in a local shop. I had a really productive day yesterday, a lot of rest and hadn’t felt low as I often do when home alone.

Food is always a good place to start...small, regular and healthy meals with a good amount of carbs and fresh veg. Plenty of fish if you like it. Try making in bulk when you have more time, bone broth, veg chillis etc etc. Eat good snacks, nuts, cottage cheese, avocado.

Try doing more 'exercise that isn't exercise'- walking more, gardening etc.
Sometimes, putting some earphones in and going for a nice brisk walk is more cardio than you think and good time just for you.

I get it totally, working, mumming, housework etc- it's a lot for us all! But try easy steps first. Adjust your diet (and I mean general food intake, not diet in starve yourself sense) and get lots of fresh air.

Try to get all the vitamins you need from food- eat more iron and B12 rich foods. Make sure you eat headspace!

I hope you feel better soon!

GET headspace, don't eat it 🤣

And defo come off social media- completely toxic!!

Thanks for the guilt trip salems lot. Exactly what I need!

Take the positive from all the words here lass. Focus on those.

Thank you x

Sorry op. Didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I just think it makes life easier and better if you just cook one decent meal for everyone.
Good luck with it. I genuinely hope you find a rhythm that works for you.

I recommend reading how to do everything and be happy by Peter Jones. It will help you identify your goals, plan realistic ways of acieving them. I dont get so overwhelmed by the thought of all the things I have to do since reading.

OP, I found it helpful to make a big batch of a healthy meal, eg a hearty stew with lots of root veg, lentils etc, or a big home made curry or chilli con carne, divide it into portions and freeze it.
That way, you simply move portions of whatever you want for dinner from the freezer to the fridge to defrost overnight. Next day, come in tired from work and just pop it in the microwave. Hassle free dinner in 3 minutes!
I always cooked at least four extra portions of anything, and it means so many fewer nights slaving over a stove.
In warm weather, have a selection of salad vegetables in the fridge and get the kids to help arrange them on the plates, along with a choice of eggs, cold meats, or shellfish.
I never served my kids a shop bought ready meal in 18 years, but I never slaved in the kitchen! And the kids enjoyed baking with me at weekends. Working full time with kids is exhausting (I was widowed with 2 babies, and working as a hospital doctor, so I fully understand), but there are ways to make it easier.