50 Wholesome And Funny Posts About Parents That Brightened People’s Day

There's nothing more important than a parent taking good care of themselves. After all, when a parent is not paying enough attention to their well-being, the well-being of the kids suffers. It might seem impossible for a parent to get even a minute to themselves. But here's one thing to remember: even a moment of decompression can help parents feel much better.

Simple ways to practice self-care can be making a cup of tea or coffee for yourself and taking five or 10 minutes to enjoy it. Taking a walk is also a good way to decompress, and bonus points for improved physical health. But self-care oftentimes can't be spontaneous. Parents may need to plan these activities beforehand, no matter how small they are. It may seem silly to put "go for a walk" on the calendar, but it increases commitment.

Pediatrician J. Michael Wertman, MD, notes that parents should seek opportunities to have fun. Essentially, try to incorporate the things you like into your daily activities that involve your children. If you like sports, coach their little league team or volunteer to help during soccer practice.

If you like reading, make it a tradition to read your kids a book every night before bed. Dedicate time to talk about the books with the children, too. "It's an opportunity to be positive, to encourage and to enjoy a unique closeness," Wertman points out.

While exercising to de-stress may sound counterintuitive and not relaxing at all, it's almost the next best thing when it comes to taking a break. According to the Mayo Clinic, any form of physical exercise can act as a stress reliever. In a previous interview for Bored Panda, licensed psychologist Nathan Brandon explained how "jogging, cycling, or even walking, [releases] endorphins and helps to reduce stress hormones."

Dr. Brandon also shared other tips for relaxation with our readers.

1. Breathing exercises
2. Meditation
3. Progressive muscle relaxation
4. Setting realistic goals
5. Prioritizing tasks

Socializing with the people we love matters a lot, too. "Spending time with friends or family, or even participating in community groups, can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation," Dr. Brandon pointed out. "Journaling can also be a therapeutic way to express and process emotions."

According to Dr. Brandon, managing stress is not a one-size-fits-all approach. "It's essential to find what works best for you and to regularly practice these strategies," he said. "Self-care practices such as getting enough sleep, taking breaks when needed, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy can also help to prevent stress from building up. Remember to be kind to yourself and prioritize your physical and mental well-being."

Do you think parenting with humor is a good strategy to experience less stress, Pandas? Share your personal experiences with us in the comments, and let us know the funniest thing your parents ever did. And if you want to see even more parents being hilariously wholesome, check out our previous articles here, here, and here!