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African-American mother nursing baby boy

Source: kali9 / Getty

Nothing truly prepared me for the demands of motherhood, except being thrown into it. I’ve been stretched in ways I didn’t think were possible and I feel burned out more often than I ever imagined I could. Of course, none of us can pour from an empty cup, so I had to begin incorporating some self-care practices that may seem small in isolation but, when working together for the good of those who need a break, have helped me to stay afloat. Here are 13 small ways to recharge when it feels like you’re running on empty.

Young African female student , relaxing and listening music in a University campus room

Source: NoSystem images / Getty

Listen to an inspirational podcast or sermon

While music can be calming and uplifting, sometimes you need an actual word. Listening to a great sermon on YouTube or a motivational speaker’s podcast can often do the trick. The good thing is you can listen while you cook, clean, or perform any of those other tasks that sometimes overwhelm you. Or, you can put your foot down and tell your family these 45 minutes belong to you.

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