Managing a business while raising a family is a balancing act that requires not just time management but also emotional resilience. On a recent episode of the Boss Mom podcast, Dana Malstaff and Cathy Heller dove into the power of nervous system regulation, exploring how finding inner calm can transform your life and business. Cathy, a top-ranked podcast host, coach, and author, shared her insights on how moms can use nervous system regulation to navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and motherhood.
Being a mom and business owner means juggling numerous roles, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the demands of both. When we’re constantly in “fight or flight” mode—whether due to work stress, family responsibilities, or self-imposed expectations—our nervous system can become overstimulated.
Chronic stress over time can lead to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion.
Cathy explains that nervous system regulation is essential for building a foundation of sustainable growth and happiness.
Cathy’s Takeaway:
“When a mom’s nervous system is calm, everything in the home feels different. Our energy and presence matter most.”
Create Space for Stillness and Reflection
Cathy stresses the importance of recharging. This could mean meditation, a walk outside, or sitting in silence. Slowing down gives your mind a break from constant stimulation, easing stress.
Dana’s Advice on Creating White Space:
“I block off white space on my calendar to ensure there’s time for just being. These moments allow me to recharge.”
Embrace Presence Over Perfection
Being fully present with family creates a positive, secure environment. Cathy notes that true impact comes from presence, not productivity.
Cathy’s Insight on Presence:
“The most impactful thing you can do for your kids, husband, and business is to be present. Your calm energy matters most.”
Prioritize Self-Care and Connection
Women with strong support networks and self-care practices tend to have better mental health. Cathy references studies showing that moms benefit from quality time with close friends.
Cathy’s Takeaway:
“Moms who spend 1-2 hours weekly with supportive friends experience less stress. This creates calmer, happier families.”
Use Simple Breathing Exercises
Breathwork calms the nervous system. A simple exercise, like inhaling, holding, and exhaling for four counts each, can help reset your system.
Shift Your Mindset from Hustle to Flow
Cathy suggests moving from hustle to flow, focusing on alignment and allowing things to unfold naturally. This approach supports working smarter, not harder.
On Hustle vs. Flow:
“Working in alignment allows things to flow. You don’t need to force success—it will come naturally when calm.”
Moms often feel responsible for everyone’s happiness, but Cathy and Dana stress the value of letting others step up. This reduces your mental load and instills responsibility in your family.
Dana’s Perspective on Family Contribution:
“Allowing our kids and partners to help gives them ownership and purpose. They want to contribute—just give them the chance.”
Cathy and Dana emphasize that purpose and connection help relieve stress. Reconnecting with your purpose, through a passion project or family time, brings joy and fulfillment.
Cathy on Purpose and Fulfillment:
“We all have unique gifts. Finding purpose in serving others in line with our gifts is incredibly fulfilling.”
In a busy world, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters. Cathy and Dana remind us that reaching our goals is less about nonstop productivity and more about calm, purpose, and a supportive community.
By focusing on these areas, we can lead balanced, fulfilling lives, positively impacting family, business, and ourselves.
For more guidance on balancing work and family, explore Cathy Heller’s podcast and Dana Malstaff’s Boss Mom community. Together, we can create lives filled with purpose, peace, and joy.
