Motherhood Writings... Breath and Sleep

One of the things that amazes me most about being a mama, is how much I learn from my kids. A couple nights ago my daughter seemed a bit restless at bedtime. She had the wiggles, like many six year olds do at bedtime! She looked at me and said, "Mumma, can we talk about it in your room?"

I scooped her up carried her to our bedroom and we sat on the bed together.

"Mumma, I think I'll feel better if I lay on your bed like this [one hand on her heart, the other on her tummy] for a few minutes." I said sure and she laid on her back resting her hands on her chest and stomach. And I watched on, amazed, as my daughter took deep breaths with her eyes closed. It was so incredible to watch her use her own power, breath, and mind to calm her body and prepare herself for sleep. A few minutes passed and she whispered, "In a few minutes you can pick me up and take me to my bed."

A few minutes later I did just that, and watched her so calmly drift to sleep.

It was beautiful. I was amazed at the simplicity of the moment, yet how profound and powerful it was. I've always talked to my daughter about the power inside of her and the importance of breath, but to see her, on her own!, use it nearly made me a weepy pile on the floor. It was a moment where I thought we're doin' alright. Mamas, dads, parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles and friends... We're all doin' alright. The kiddos are paying attention, learning, and teaching us along the way.