{"id":33899,"date":"2025-01-27T10:28:15","date_gmt":"2025-01-27T16:28:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/?p=33899"},"modified":"2025-01-15T10:35:08","modified_gmt":"2025-01-15T16:35:08","slug":"how-to-handle-overstimulation-as-a-mom-finding-calm-in-the-chaos","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/how-to-handle-overstimulation-as-a-mom-finding-calm-in-the-chaos\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Handle Overstimulation as a Mom: Finding Calm in the Chaos\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Being a mom is a beautifully chaotic experience, full of sounds, sights and so many things to do all at once. But let\u2019s be real\u2014there\u2019s a line where that chaos becomes overstimulation. Suddenly, every noise feels like a siren, every light is too bright, and the last thing you want is another \u201cMom, can you &#8230; ?\u201d If you\u2019ve ever felt this way, you\u2019re not alone! Overstimulation is real, especially for moms. Here\u2019s how to calm the storm and find a bit of peace in the midst of it all.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33902\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Handle Noise Overstimulation With Small Shifts<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When kids are running through the house like it\u2019s a playground, the noise level can reach concert-level decibels in seconds. You don\u2019t need to hide in the closet (though we\u2019ve all been there!); there are other, subtler ways to handle it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Create a Sound Buffer With White Noise Machines\/Playlists:<\/strong> Instead of blocking all sounds with earplugs, use a white noise machine or app to create a steady, calming background sound. White noise doesn\u2019t eliminate the noises around you but helps balance them, making sudden outbursts less jarring. \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Quiet Hour:<\/strong> Schedule quiet time in the day\u2014yes, for everyone! While kids might not sit still in complete silence, encourage activities like coloring, reading or playing with soft toys to keep the noise level down.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Breathing:<\/strong> Just a few moments of deep, slow breathing helps signal to your body that it\u2019s okay to relax. Ask God for his peace as you do. If you can handle a little soft music, I recommend putting on a Gregorian chants playlist as you breathe. \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33903\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Schedule Time for Silence<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creating intentional moments of silence can feel like finding water in the desert. As moms, we need to schedule time for quiet just like we\u2019d schedule soccer practice or grocery shopping. Consider it to be nonnegotiable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Early Morning or Late-Night Silence:<\/strong> If possible, wake up a few minutes before everyone else, or stay up just a bit later, to enjoy the calm. Use this time to pray, reflect or just sit in silence. These minutes can act as a buffer for the day ahead.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Create a \u201cSilent Day\u201d Ritual:<\/strong> Every so often, make a family \u201csilent day\u201d (or maybe the more achievable \u201csilent hour\u201d) a special tradition where everyone whispers and keeps things mellow. Make it a fun challenge for the kids too\u2014they may surprise you with how long they can stay quiet!\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33901\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Dim the Lights, Grab the Weighted Blanket and Shut Off Screens<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s something overstimulating about every screen being on in the house, every light blazing and toys flashing from every corner. Adjusting your environment can go a long way toward easing overstimulation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Dim the Lights:<\/strong> Lighting affects how we feel. Harsh lights can spike overstimulation, so use softer lighting in the evening to create a calming effect. Swap out harsh fluorescent bulbs or \u201cdaylight\u201d LEDs for the dimmer \u201csoft white\u201d LED types. \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For maximum nighttime calm, choose orange- or red-tinted bulbs. Lean in to soft ambient lighting. I\u2019m a big fan of fairy lights\u2014they\u2019re especially great tacked under kitchen cabinets (if you know you know). \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>We know that real candles aren\u2019t ideal around children and\/or pets, but artificial candles (with orange \u201cflames\u201d) can have just as wonderful ambient effects!\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Weighted Blankets:<\/strong> If you haven\u2019t tried one yet, weighted blankets can be a game-changer. They provide a gentle, calming pressure that helps your nervous system relax.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Screen-Free Zones:<\/strong> Make certain areas of your home screen-free. Set times to turn off the screens and allow your eyes\u2014and mind\u2014to rest.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33905\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Budgeting for De-Stimulation Nights (Takeout Is Your Friend!)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s no shame in taking shortcuts when you need them. Scheduling a \u201ctakeout night\u201d when you\u2019re feeling overwhelmed can give you that much-needed break.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Plan It Out:<\/strong> Make a plan for those days you know you\u2019re running on empty. Maybe once a week or month, set aside funds in the budget for takeout (or the slightly more budget-friendly frozen TV dinners\/frozen pizza) to give yourself permission to breathe without worrying about cooking.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Emergency De-Stress Kit:<\/strong> Create a small kit with a few things that bring you peace\u2014a cozy blanket, calming essential oils, your favorite herbal tea and maybe even a good book. When you\u2019re feeling overstimulated, grab it and let yourself unwind.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33904\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Make De-Stimulating a Ritual<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rituals give us something to look forward to, a signal to our bodies that it\u2019s okay to rest. Treat de-stimulation as a regular ritual for yourself.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Weekly \u201cQuiet Time\u201d Routine:<\/strong> Set a regular day each week to unplug, unwind and reset. This is sacred time for you\u2014so guard it! A calming paperback novel, a hot bath and some sleep-friendly herbal tea are all great things to incorporate into this routine. \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Small Prayers Throughout the Day:<\/strong> Ask God for peace, guidance and the strength to navigate overstimulation. These moments with God bring us back to his peace, which often gives us the exact strength we need.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33906\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Remember to Turn to God<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes, it feels like there isn\u2019t enough coffee in the world to keep up. But there\u2019s another source of strength that can sustain us in the most overstimulating times\u2014God.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prayer for Peace:<\/strong> A quick, heartfelt prayer can do wonders to calm your mind and spirit. God sees and understands the overwhelmed, and he offers peace that the world cannot give.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Psalm 23:<\/strong> Consider meditating on Psalm 23 during overwhelming times. \u201cHe leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul\u201d (Psalm 23:2\u20133, NIV). There\u2019s comfort in knowing we don\u2019t have to do it all alone.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image-5.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33907\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Children\u2019s Books on Peace and Calm<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Believe it or not, kids\u2019 books can be a balm for both parents and children. Reading stories that focus on peace, calm and coziness can help your kids see these concepts in a new light and make it easier for you to model these ideas together.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Books that Teach Quiet Time:<\/strong> Look for children\u2019s books that introduce ideas of calm and quiet\u2014stories where characters learn the importance of peace. These can become part of your family\u2019s evening routine and set a calm tone before bedtime.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A \u201cQuiet Time\u201d Basket:<\/strong> Keep a basket of calming books for when overstimulation is high. Read them together to bring everyone\u2019s energy level down.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/image-6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-33908\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Embracing the Peace in Motherhood<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Overstimulation may be part of motherhood, but finding ways to manage it can bring more peace to your home and heart. Lean into moments of quiet, embrace small rituals and don\u2019t hesitate to let God lead you to still waters. With a few intentional changes, you can transform the chaos of mom life into moments of calm, and model peace for your family. And when you need a little extra help? Surround yourself with a community of other moms who understand the struggle. Join your local MomCo Meetup\u2014because even in the noise, we don\u2019t have to do it alone.\u00a0<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Being a mom is a beautifully chaotic experience, full of sounds, sights and so many things to do all at once. But let\u2019s be real\u2014there\u2019s a line where that chaos becomes overstimulation. Suddenly, every noise feels like a siren, every light is too bright, and the last thing you want is another \u201cMom, can you [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":33900,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","_seopress_robots_follow":"","_seopress_robots_imageindex":"","_seopress_robots_snippet":"","_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"117","_seopress_robots_breadcrumbs":"","_seopress_robots_freeze_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_custom_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_canonical":"","_seopress_social_fb_title":"","_seopress_social_fb_desc":"","_seopress_social_fb_img":"","_seopress_social_fb_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_height":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_title":"","_seopress_social_twitter_desc":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_height":0,"_seopress_redirections_value":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled_regex":"","_seopress_redirections_logged_status":"","_seopress_redirections_param":"","_seopress_redirections_type":0,"_seopress_analysis_target_kw":"overstimulation","_seopress_news_disabled":"","_seopress_video_disabled":"","_seopress_video":[],"_seopress_pro_schemas_manual":[],"_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_disable_all":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_disable":[],"_seopress_pro_schemas":[],"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[117],"tags":[3146,3145,56,3144,1020],"class_list":["post-33899","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wellness","tag-busy-mom","tag-mom-mental-health","tag-motherhood","tag-overstimulation","tag-overwhelmed"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/1.27-large-blog-image.webp","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33899","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33899"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33899\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33909,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33899\/revisions\/33909"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/33900"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33899"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33899"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themom.co\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33899"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}