When Mom’s Back Says “Nope”
Over the last couple weeks, I learned something the hard way: apparently, my lower back has opinions. Strong ones. One hard day cleaning the fridge out, and suddenly I was moving like a 90-year-old who just got off a roller coaster.
As a mom of three, “rest” is not exactly in the daily job description. The dishes still pile up, laundry somehow multiplies overnight, and the kids still need rides, snacks, and hugs. But here’s what I’ve been learning about surviving (and even growing from) a little setback like this.
1. Keep Moving… Slowly
The temptation is to flop on the couch and never move again, but gentle movement really helps. I started with slow walks around the house/culdesac, then graduated to walking the neighborhood. I sneak in a few stretches while the kids are brushing their teeth or while pasta water is boiling. Think:
Gentle forward folds (with bent knees)
Side stretches while loading the dishwasher
Calf raises while waiting on the dryer
Little bits add up. Even two minutes here and there help loosen things without pushing your limits.
2. Redefine “Productive”
I can’t deep-clean the kitchen right now. But I can stand at the counter and unload the top half of the dishwasher. I can fold a small load of laundry while sitting on the couch. I can tidy one corner of a room instead of tackling the whole house.
This is a season for small victories. And that’s okay.
3. Give Yourself Grace
This one is hard for me. My natural tendency is to feel guilty when I’m not “doing it all.” But here’s the truth: the kids won’t remember if laundry sat in a basket for a couple of days. They will remember if you lost your patience because you were in pain and overdoing it.
God reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” This means we don’t have to muscle through everything on our own.
4. Lean Into Prayer
This week, I’ve prayed more than usual—not because I’m suddenly more spiritual, but because moving slower has given me more pockets of quiet. I pray for healing, patience, and for God to help me see the bigger picture.
Sometimes, these setbacks are a not-so-subtle nudge to slow down and listen.
5. Lessons From the Couch
I don’t like being still. But God has been teaching me that rest isn’t wasted time. I’ve had extra moments to snuggle with my kids, listen to their stories, and even lay down in the middle of the chaos and soak up the giggles. It’s been a reminder that my value doesn’t come from how much I get done—it comes from being His.
If you’re going through a setback—physical or otherwise—here’s my encouragement:
Move gently.
Lower your to-do list expectations.
Rest without guilt.
Pray through the frustration.
Remember God’s faithfulness.
This too will pass, and you’ll be stronger—not just in your back, but in your faith and patience.
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