mom-savers // caffeine-free secrets.

Isn’t it a horrible joke that at the very moment you need caffeine in order to perform basic human functions (here’s looking at you, pregnancy brain!), you can’t indulge in a super mega bowl full of latte goodness? Yes. That is a horrible joke indeed. And now that I’m out of the pregnancy woods but nursing, I still can’t overdose on my mocha obsession. Instead, I’ve relied pretty heavily on these tricks to keep me caffeine-free, but also relatively alive. (Relatively)…

1. Hot shower.
I rely on this one daily to jumpstart myself into I-have-a-pulse territory. As soon as Bee takes her morning nap, I’m headed to the shower stat. The hotter the better, and bonus points if I have a good-smelling scrub handy (I’m madly in love with this one). Steam + exfoliation = instant pick-me-up!
2. Dance party.
I swear by this rule. Any time you’re feeling bluesy, anxious, tired or stressed, blast any jazzy tune and get on your feet. A few of my favorite movin’-and-shakin’ tunes: “The Way You Make Me Feel” Michael Jackson, “We Didn’t Start the Fire” Billy Joel (Extra credit for singing along to that one!) and “Faith” George Michael.
3. Switch it up.
Try a new perfume, treat yourself to a new tea or take a new route to the grocery store. The variation in your routine will give you a surprising boost and you’ll notice a subtle spring in your step by noon!
4. Decaf trickery.
People that are smarter than me don’t fall for this one, but sometimes I just pretend like decaf is the good stuff (even though we all know it is so very not).
5. Brush your teeth.
Face it; you haven’t even had a chance to brush your teeth for the day, so get thee to a bathroom and brush it for a quick energy boost. No joke – this lemonade flavor (which sounds disgusting but is sort of invigorating!) works like a charm.
6. Stretch.
Whether you’ve got a baby in your lap or a tween to drive to school, you can always find a muscle in need of stretching. A few of my favorite quickies: wrist rolls, calf stretches and shoulder rotations.
7. Red lipstick.
I haven’t found a red lipstick I can pull off (I keep hearing this shade is universally-flattering!), but a few of my mom friends swear by this trick. Just dab it on as you leave the house – you’ll look a bit more rested, so you’ll feel a bit more rested. (Have you tried this?)

Wishing you moms a refreshing and energizing start to your day – without the aftertaste! Tell me, what are your caffeine-free secrets?