Life with seven kids is always chaotic, loud and busy. Mornings are generally a race against time to get everyone fed, dressed and out the door. And let’s not even talk about the evenings – getting homework done, dinner cooked and getting everyone to bed is a taxing chore. Every day is a blur, full of stress, mess and feeling like I couldn’t catch my breath.
But somewhere between the hectic school runs and juggling my never-ending to-do list, I realised that calm doesn’t have to be an elusive thing. It’s not about making everything perfect or slowing down all the way (though, that’d be nice). It’s about finding those small moments to catch your breath, moments that add up to a more calmer, more manageable life.
So, I’ve started making tiny changes – things that, at first glance may seem small, but have made a huge difference. Here are six things I’ve started doing that have brought more calm into my life and could work for you too.
1. Starting the Day with Breathing Exercises
Mornings are never easy, especially when you’ve got a full house. But I’ve started setting aside just 5 minutes for myself to focus on my breathing before I get caught up in the hustle of the day. No kids, no phone, no distractions – just me, some deep breaths, and a moment of stillness.
These few minutes of quiet time help centre myself, lower anxiety about the upcoming stressors and organise my thoughts and calm my mind. Studies show that just a few minutes of deep breathing can lower anxiety and help you feel more grounded.
Tip: Try sitting up in bed, close your eyes, and inhale deeply for four seconds, hold for four, then exhale slowly for four. It’s a quick way to reset your mind before the day hits you.
2. Slowing Down on Sundays
I used to rush through the weekend mornings, thinking I needed to get ahead on chores or planning for the week. Now, I intentionally take a slower pace. One of my favourite new rituals is the slow Sunday breakfast.
We make pancakes, brew fresh coffee, and actually sit down together as a family. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s peaceful. The entire family participates in the breakfast prep and discusses the week or any projects they need help with. We take our time, we laugh, and we’re all present.
Creating a simple family routine of Sunday breakfast has brought the kids closer. Studies show that consistent routines create stability and help manage stress better.
Tip: Instead of rushing through breakfast, make it a calm, no-rush affair. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just a chance to slow down.
3. Letting Go of Perfection
This one was hard for me, especially with so many things happening at once. I used to try to control everything – perfect meals, perfect house, perfect kids’ routines. But I quickly realised that perfection is overrated. So, I let go of it. It’s all about embracing the chaos, rather than fighting it.
Tip: Next time things feel messy, remind yourself that it’s okay. Take a deep breath and laugh at the madness. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Trust me, it works. Letting go has made a huge difference.
4. Leaning Into Repetition
There’s something comforting about doing the same things, over and over. We have our little rhythms like pasta on Thursdays and laundry on Sundays. And I’ve come to see repetition not as failure to mix things up, but as an anchor. A bit like in an Orthodox Church, where the rhythm is the point.
Repetition has a unique way of bringing calm into daily life. Whether it’s starting the day with a simple morning routine like making the bed, enjoying family meals at consistent times, or winding down with the same evening ritual, these small acts create stability and connection.
Tip: Establish consistent routines, whether it’s a set sleep schedule, morning rituals, or shared family moments. The familiarity of repetition can reduce stress and build stronger bonds. Studies show that predictable routines help lower anxiety, improve sleep, and even boost mood.
5. Making Time for Family
In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of quality time. But I’ve learned that even small moments spent together as a family can have a big impact. Whether it’s reading a bedtime story, playing a board game, or simply chatting about the day, these moments of connection bring a sense of calm and closeness.
Regular bonding moments strengthen relationships and create a more positive atmosphere at home. By prioritising quality over quantity, we can create lasting memories and build stronger, more peaceful connections.
Tip: Set aside time each day, even if it’s just 10 minutes, to connect with loved ones. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, just being present with each other makes a difference.
6. Light a Candle to Slow Down
At the end of each day, I light a candle. It’s my signal to slow down, take a breath, and shift from busy mode to calm mode. Whether I’m winding down from work or preparing for bed, it’s a small act that helps me feel more grounded.
Lighting candles isn’t just for ambiance. Studies show that candles can reduce stress and promote relaxation. A small act that goes a long way.
Tip: Light a candle when you need to unwind. The soft glow and scent help create a relaxing atmosphere and induce sleep.
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
These small changes haven’t just helped me feel more calm; they’ve helped my whole family feel more connected. From deep breathing in the morning to lighting a candle at night, these little rituals add up over time.
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, start with just one of these things. Trust me, you don’t need to make big changes to bring calm into your life. Sometimes, it’s the tiny moments that make the biggest impact.
For more ways to improve your health and well-being, explore our Health and Well-being Tips for practical advice on creating a balanced life.