From City Streets to Mountain Trails: A Boy Mom's Journey of Mindful Living
- Johanna Toman
- Jul 25
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 29
Living as a boy mom from the hustling streets of Chicago transitioning to the calm of mountain trails and sandy beaches has been a life-changing adventure. This blog celebrates my journey as a mother, daughter, and dog lover. Here, I share practical insights on living mindfully with children while enjoying the great outdoors. As someone passionate about yoga and outdoor activities, my hope is to inspire fellow parents to embrace the joys and challenges of parenting with mindfulness.
The Inspiration Behind This Blog
I created this blog to share my personal journey and the valuable lessons I've learned. Often, I yearned for a community of parents who shared my interests. In the whirlwind of parenting—rushing through city streets, squeezing in yoga, and planning family adventures—I realized how essential mindfulness is in our lives. My goal has always been to thrive, rather than merely survive.
With a professional background that includes being a Registered Yoga School (RYS 200) graduate, a Registered Children's Yoga Teacher (RCYT), and a MovNat Level 1 instructor, I bring a wealth of experience to my parenting. These insights have taught me the value of movement, the joy of connecting with nature, and the importance of taking a moment to slow down.
Mindful Living with Children
Mindful living with children centers on simplicity and presence. It’s not about removing distractions but creating an atmosphere where families can connect deeply with each other and their surroundings.
Consider choosing a daily intention. It could be as simple as "let's discover something new today" or "let’s focus on being kind to each other." These small intentions can significantly enhance family dynamics throughout the day.
For instance, I often take my boys on morning hikes. During these hikes, we discuss the different species of trees, the sounds of various birds, and the vastness of the sky. This practice not only promotes physical activity but also fosters their curiosity and strengthens their bond with the natural world.
Outdoor Activities: Connecting with Nature
Nature serves as the ultimate playground! From city parks to mountain trails, my children have discovered joy in outdoor adventures. Activities like hiking and biking give us opportunities to explore together. For example, during a recent weekend, we hiked five miles through the local mountains, spotting over a dozen types of wildflowers along the way. These moments create lasting memories.
Practicing yoga outdoors has further deepened the impact of our adventures. It keeps us active and encourages the kids to notice the beauty around them. For example, incorporating simple yoga poses while camping has not only enhanced our enjoyment but taught them self-regulation techniques. Instead of reacting impulsively during stressful moments, my kids have learned to pause and take a deep breath.
Resources for Parents and Educators
One goal of this blog is to compile resources for parents, educators, and anyone interested in engaging children in mindful activities. There is a wealth of ideas out there, but it can be daunting to sift through them. I strive to gather easily adaptable exercises that can be used in both classrooms and homes.
My favorite resources include:
Yoga Journal – A comprehensive guide, offering yoga practices suitable for all ages.
Outdoor Parents, Outdoor Kids – A community resource promoting outdoor play for families.
National Wildlife Federation – Provides engaging ideas to help kids explore nature.
These resources can inspire creativity and help make mindful living straightforward and enjoyable.
Connecting Through Movement and Play
Our family has learned that meaningful connections arise from play and movement. Activities like running along the beach, hiking nature trails, and playing fetch with our dog foster strong bonds.
Regularly incorporating movement has led to happier, more engaged children. For instance, since we introduced weekend nature scavenger hunts, we've noticed how excited our kids become about outdoor exploration. It sparks their creativity, improves their mood, and helps them feel more comfortable in their own skin.
Finding Balance as a Boy Mom
As a boy mom, I've discovered that finding balance is essential. Managing the demands of my kids, navigating my roles as a daughter and sister, and pursuing my love for outdoor activities can be a tough juggling act. This blog serves as a reminder to embrace both the chaos and the tranquility that life brings.
Whether we're camping under the stars or enjoying a lazy beach day, balance means immersing ourselves in every moment. It’s about being fully present and relishing each experience, rather than splitting time evenly.
Goals and Objectives for This Blog
Through this blog, I aim to encourage other parents to embrace outdoor living, prioritize mental wellness, and engage in mindful activities. My ultimate goals are to provide:
Inspiration for living life more mindfully,
Practical tips on getting active outdoors,
Fun exercises to engage children,
Resources that can be seamlessly integrated into everyday life.
Together, let's build a community that uplifts and supports each other on this extraordinary journey of parenthood.
Embracing the Journey Ahead
Life is a journey filled with moments worth celebrating. Whether navigating city streets, hiking mountain trails, or relaxing on a beach, embracing mindful living can lead to incredible growth.
As we laugh, play, and explore, I hope this blog serves as a valuable resource, allowing parents, educators, and families to connect and flourish. Let’s embark on this journey of mindful living together, fostering a love for nature, movement, and joy. After all, each moment is precious!
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