Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It Podcast By cover art

Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It

Modern Stress, Ancient Responses: Why Moms Need Rest and How to Get It

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Curious if OT could help your child's struggles? Download Why Choose OT to find out! I got the chance to sit down with Katie Cooper, a seasoned occupational therapist turned health coach, who shares her journey from burnout to wellness and how that fueled her passion for supporting other moms. Drawing from nearly two decades of OT experience and her own story of overcoming stress and overwhelm during the pandemic, Katie opens up about practical strategies for calming the nervous system—strategies that are especially useful for homeschool families and any parent juggling busy roles. From quick, restorative rituals to the science behind movement, breathing, and even the power of a 20-second hug, this conversation dives deep into why our modern lives leave us on constant high alert—and what to do about it. Whether you’re a homeschooler, a busy mom, or just looking for real-world tips to manage the pressures of daily life, this is packed with relatable stories and actionable advice. In this episode you'll hear about: Roles vs. IdentityHow changes in roles can impact one’s sense of selfThe importance of recognizing shifts in roles, especially for mothers and homeschool parentsModern Stress and Nervous System ActivationExplanation of why nervous systems are frequently activated in modern lifeChronic exposure to stressors and the body’s fight or flight responseThe impact of constant connectivity and information overloadComparison of past and present sources of stressThe Culture of BusynessSocietal expectations around busyness and parental pressure to provide experiencesHow removing traditional chores has led to filling time with structured activitiesThe challenge of saying “no” to opportunities for children and balancing self-careImportance of modeling healthy boundaries for childrenPractical Ways to Calm the Nervous SystemIntegrating quick, accessible calming techniques into daily lifeMovement as a tool for regulation (e.g., walking, stretching, dancing)Differentiating helpful movement from stressful exerciseIncorporating movement into family routinesBreathing exercises as a stress-management tool (e.g., 4-7-8 breathing)Implementation with children and familiesUse of props like bubbles or straws for younger kidsTools and Sensory Supports for RegulationIntroduction to calming strips and tactile supportsThe relevance and benefit for both kids and adults (including OTs themselves)The Impact of Digital ConnectivityIncreased difficulty in regulating due to the omnipresence of digital mediaBrief reflection on historical perspectives and ongoing challenges with chronic stressMore Calming StrategiesThe 20-second hug and its physiological effects (lowering stress hormones, heart rate)Using laughter as a tool to reduce stress and relax the bodyBuilding family rituals for regulation and connectionUnderstanding the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous SystemsExplanation of terms: fight or flight (sympathetic) vs. rest and digest (parasympathetic)How to recognize when the parasympathetic system is activated (e.g., yawning, sighing)Tips for increasing bodily awareness and noticing stress patternsKatie’s Coaching Work and ApproachOverview of Katie’s current work as a health coach for moms and parentsStructure of her coaching engagement (3–6 months, regular meetings, goal-setting)Emphasis on support, accountability, and gradual life changes Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Homeschool Daily Set Up: Parental Planning Guide Calming Strip StickersUnderstanding Sensory Self CareKatie Cooper WellnessConnect With Katie Cooper On InstagramKatie Cooper Wellness 10 Quick Ways To Calm Your Nervous System Episode 13: Beyond the Five Senses: Understanding Your Child's Interoceptive World with Cara Kosinski Episode 14: Outdoor Activities to Develop Interoception in Children with Guest Caroline Santangelo Episode 19: Understanding Screen Time Effects on Children's Development and Relationships Episode 28: Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child Development Episode 30: Sensory Processing and Co-Regulation: Insights for ParentsEpisode 32: Homeschooling During Crisis: Finding Balance with Self Care and Family Support Episode 53: Redefining Rest: An approach to Spiritual, Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional RestConnect With Sarah On Instagram Connect With Our Guest, Katie Cooper Katie Cooper is a board-certified health coach with over 16 years of experience in the health care industry as an Occupational Therapist. After overcoming burnout, Katie started Katie Cooper Wellness to help fellow moms banish burnout and regain energy and passion for life. Katie is a mom of two and avid skier, quilter and baker. She is on a mission to help her clients overcome stress and find sustainable balance in their careers and lives.
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