The Thermostat {Part 2}
A few weeks back I talked about being a thermostat verses a thermometer and I thought I would give you two big ways I set the temperature in our home. These are both mostly for me. But that’s sort of the point, seeing as I’m the thermostat.
Before I go any further, I need you to know that I am not a naturally calm and relaxed person. I am actually pretty tightly wound, and oftentimes that comes out in ways I really wish it didn’t, usually against my children. I have yelled (not raised my voice, yelled!) at my children more times than I like to think about. That is why I need to actively find things that help to calm me down. Things that help me bring down my own temperature so I can then bring down the temperature in the house.
1. Music: I have found that I personally cannot listen to any music with words in the morning. There are already so many words being spoken at me, so instead I put on Piano Hymns on Spotify or lately, Christmas piano. All of these calm my heart and paint a melody of peace even when things are chaotic.
2. A candle: If we are staying home, I light a candle and wear cozy pants. The candle just signifies to me that we are staying put. It creates this cozy mood and makes the house feel like a haven. And the pants make it easier to play on the floor.
There are more, but these two seemed like a very practical, easy starting place. Hope you find them helpful. Have a lovely weekend, friends.
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This post just made me feel normal. This is a perfect anology, thermostat! These are great, now to find mine! Thanks for the reminder!
I am so glad. Thank you, Laura!
MORE OF THESE AS YOU THINK OF THEM! My therapist actually gave me the thermometer/thermostat analogy and when you mentioned it the other day I was like “YEAH REAL LIFE” and was encouraged to know someone else feels what I feel and has been directed (though you care to it yourself) to try to reposition her approach and that sometimes it’s hard anyway. Very encouraging. We appreciate you.
*came to it yourself
Thank you so much Katie, and I am so glad that analogy is being used by other people. It really is so helpful!
I wholeheartedly agree with both of these tips for keeping myself calm and present around my kiddos! I have also found that keeping a bottle of water or glass of iced coffee nearby makes a big difference. I’m a much nicer mom when hydrated! Thanks for the wonderful advice, as always!
It’s so true! Hydration is key. Love it!