Burnt out mum of three-any suggestions that don't involve time away

[threekidshelp]

I am seriously burnt out. I have three children, dd 13, ds10, dd8. I don't work full time but nearly. I find it really, really hard to switch off until they go to bed which is now past nine for the oldest.

I would dearly love a night or weekend away with or with out dh as it find it so hard to switch off from worrying about them. I can't concentrate properly or focus on one task at a time unless it's super urgent and spending time with one child at a time is nearly impossible.

I just want to find ways for my mind to stop whirling apart from telly and actually being asleep. Funds are tight-plenty coming in but big mortgage, bills and children's activities swallow up the lion's share and I feel guilty properly spending on activities for us.

Any suggestions, or is life just like that with three?

hmm have you tried any mindfulness apps?

I booked aqua with a friend every Tuesday and dh knows there's v little that comes in the way. it's £5 a session and I nearly always feel so much better after.

did couch to 5k last year and I love running at 8ish during the summer. make me feel so much better.

You really do need to carve out a little time for yourself.
Walking or swimming are both good for exercise and a little headspace.
I actually like going for a walk with either DH or DD to give them a bit more focused attention but in a relaxed way.

Ah, thanks for suggestions. I think it's time for me to get active. I tend to slump and stare at a blank wall or telly whoever there's no demands, but really, it's not working and I just have to fight my inner sloth. Swimming is totally possible.

Think about river swimming as well as pool swimming. But I agree any form of exercise will improve things.

You say you can’t switch off till eldest is in bed. I wonder if you could work on that? Both make and consider your 13yr old as more on your side than the kids side. Go to bed yourself and read even if they are still up. Let go a bit of feeling like you still have to be mum and on duty when it’s just the 13yr old up.

I was also going to suggest mindfulness apps. I use Headspace and have found it amazing. Also no tv/screen time/phone an hour before bed.

Exercise as well.