Our Mindful Mamas series spotlights other amazing mindful mamas from all over! The interviews focus on mindfulness and self-care and what it means and looks like for each mama. The goal of this series is to showcase the different ways we mamas get our self-care and mindfulness in and show how it can look/feel/be different for everyone, as well as the creative tips we mamas use to fit it in! We hope this series educates, informs and inspires you on self-care and to take some time for yourself, mama!
Meet Ellen Hockley
Ellen is our next Bliss'd Mindful Mama! Ellen is originally from Portland, OR, now living in Maplewood, NJ, and she is a mama of two - a 4.5 year old and a 19 month old. She is an Entrepreneur - currently a small business consultant. Read on for my full interview with Ellen.
What is your definition of self-care? Has this changed since becoming a mom?
For me, self-care is taking the time to do the things I love, it could be a hike, a bath, a long walk with a friend, curling up with a good book or going for a pedicure. It's often in solitude since the rest of my time is usually busy with my kids, spouse, dog and work. I like taking time to be with myself. Before becoming a mom, I never thought about self-care, I didn't need to. I did the things I needed and wanted, but now there's more to consider, time, budget constraints, other peoples needs, which means I am much more thoughtful about how I spend my free time and if it doesn't fill my cup, I try to avoid it.
What does your self-care routine look like? Feel free to share small practices you do regularly and/or a set routine (morning, evening).
I don't have a specific daily routine for my self-care practices, but movement is huge for me. I try to either walk with my weighted vest or lift weights every day. Prioritizing my physical health, helps keep me grounded.
Do you practice mindfulness? If so, how?
Hoping to develop this in 2025.
What's a "mindful mama" tip you have?
Try to remember you can't do it all. I know its hard to hear, but you're only one person, I've burned myself out thinking it was all my responsibility, but you need to try and remember to take a step back and put yourself first.
What is your favorite self-care activity for when you have… 5 minutes, 30 minutes, 60+ minutes?
Honestly, it totally depends. But I'd say for 30 min I try to get a quick workout or coffee with a friend or a glorious shower with no tiny people banging on the door! For 60+ minutes, a hike, pedicure or if I know ahead of time maybe even a massage. If it's late in the day then just TV, LOL.
What are your top 3 - 5 self-care and/or wellness products?
Motherhood can be overwhelming! How do you center yourself when you’re feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed?
Movement and friendship. I try really hard to connect with at least one friend everyday, and it might be just a couple texts back and forth, but knowing there's someone out there to support me really helps! And of course, my movement practice. I don't always have time for a long walk or a workout, but we have a dog, so I use that time to decompress when possible.
What is a tip you have for a mom interested in self-care but unsure how to start, or she feels overwhelmed with the idea of fitting it in?
Start small, you don't need to do it all today or tomorrow. Just 5 minutes can be enough to get you started. And find what works for you, don't worry about what everyone else is doing, you're doing this for you.
When do you feel your most bliss’d out?
When I take the time to prioritize my needs, ensuring I can give the best of myself to my family, friends and work.
What's a mama mantra you live by?
It only takes one foot in front of the other to climb a mountain, just keep taking one more step.
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Thank you, Ellen, for sharing your thoughts! If you'd like to connect further with Ellen, follow her on LinkedIn or check out her website!
