How Meditation Improves Parenting

I start my day, every single day, with meditation and yoga. I used to make exceptions — if I was tired, or cramping, or sick, or had a lot to do, or traveling. But I no longer make exceptions because the benefits of these two practices are just too wonderful.

Meditation is what I’m going to talk to you about today, though. Meditation has made me a better parent. Not a perfect parent, but better.

Mom (or Dad) Sets the Tone

In a two-parent home, if one parent is in a bad mood, the other can try to offset it — or get the kids out of the house for a while to avoid the bad mood and give it a chance to improve.

When you’re a single parent, though, it’s all on you. If you’re in a bad mood, the kids are stuck with you. And often, your bad mood will rub off on them.

It leads to crankiness, snapping at each other, and just an all-around bad day.

By starting my day with meditation, I ensure that I at least start the day in a good mood. It’s a few minutes spent centering myself, remembering who I am and the kind of person and parent I want to be.

It’s time to get grounded.

This grounding, or centering, puts you in a better mood. Whether the kids give you grief, work gives you a problem, or life in…