CheyTai

Have you ever sat down and realized that all of your daily family rituals are exhausting? Never intentional or calming. I had this realization recently, that everything felt like autopilot constantly.

• Feeding the baby: Not intentional, chaotic, and rushed while also feeding the other two.
• Feeding myself: Not intentional, squeezed into whatever spare moment I can find. Not peaceful or relaxing.
• Getting ready for gymnastics or Jiu-Jitsu: Stressful and not fun, feels like a race against time.
• Doing the kids’ hair: A rushed process because Nyx is climbing, grabbing the brush or spray.

It hit me that I was letting these everyday moments—moments that could be grounding or even joyful—slip into survival mode. I don’t want to live like that. I don’t want my kids to remember their childhood as one big rush from one task to another.

This was how I did Lily’s hair during a day when I was more mindful about what I was doing and took my time.
I spent time with her, asked her what she wanted. Instead of what I usually do where I put it up in a ponytail.

– Chey

So, I’ve decided to make a change. Instead of approaching everything with a “just get it done” mindset, I’m working on making these moments intentional.

• Feeding the baby: I’m setting aside distractions, sitting down, and being fully present during feeding time. Even if it’s just a few minutes of quiet connection, it makes a difference.
• Feeding myself: I’m learning to treat eating as a moment of self-care. Lighting a candle or sitting with less distractions. Maybe having tea outside in the morning before the kids wake up or at night after the kids go to bed.
• Getting ready for activities: Instead of rushing, we’re trying to build in extra time so the process isn’t as frantic. Even putting on a fun playlist can shift the energy.
• Doing the kids’ hair: I’m turning it into a game or storytelling time so it’s less stressful and more fun (for all of us).

I am positive there will still be moments, like cleaning or a doctors appointment, where were running out the door with waffles in our mouths and juggling all the things we need…. BUT I hope that won’t be as common as it is now.

These aren’t huge changes, but they’re already helping me feel more connected to my day. Intentional rituals don’t have to be elaborate—they just have to make you feel alive instead of stuck on autopilot.

~ Chey ❤