I am so glad that the world has come to realize that everyone needs a little self-care, especially moms! Rather you do some self-care once a week, or once a year, I have compiled a list of ideas for you.
Sometimes you just need to remove yourself from the demands of home and the children. Go for a walk, try a new hobby, check out the mall, wander around Target. Have you ever been there without kids? It’s magical! Grab a coffee, get ice cream, choose whatever it is you like to eat and enjoy it in peace!
It is so therapeutic to bounce ideas of others, vent, celebrate successes and be a support for people struggling with the same issues as you. Take time to connect with a friend or relative, join a moms club or an online support group!
I know, I know. I can see the eye roll now. Believe me, I have done the same on numerous occasions. I completely understand how hard it is to get motivated to exercise, but you can’t deny how great you feel afterwards!
Exercise has been proven to reduce stress, boost self-esteem, decrease feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as help you sleep better. Exercise doesn’t have to take place at a gym. Put your kids in a wagon or stroller and take a walk, ride bikes, sign up for a mom’s fitness class. Find a type of exercise you love and get moving.
In the throes of parenting, our partners often get taken for granted and it is likely for parents to forget that a relationship needs work. Sure you might end up talking about the kids most of the time, but scheduling that one on one time is so important for connecting with each other. It doesn’t have to be fancy, you don’t even have to leave the house. Have a late dinner together after the kids are in bed. Set aside one night each week to watch your favorite show or a movie together.
It is so easy to get caught up in the negative, but there is so much that each of us have to be thankful for. Focus on being mindful and appreciating the good things in your day ….. the sun shining, a warm house, a snuggle with your child. Try setting aside ten minutes each day to write in a gratitude journal or download a meditation app to help build an attitude of gratitude into your daily routine.
As parents, we often focus on routines for our children, but they can help us out too. Start a self-care bedtime routine that you can look forward to after the kids are in bed. Take a bath or hot shower, listen to your favorite music, meditate, pray, read, journal or anything else that gives you joy. Pick something that is relaxing to you and make it part of your daily routine.
As a bonus, some self-care time can help calm your mind before bed, so that you can fall asleep easier and get more zzz’s. What parent doesn’t want more sleep?!?
It is okay to say no and it is actually essential to your well-being not to overextend yourself. I have to admit, I have gotten really good at saying no to things in the past few years. As a stay-at-home mom, it is often assumed that I have endless free time to dedicate to committees, school activities and leadership roles in organizations. While I enjoy being involved or helping where I can, I can’t do it all and that’s okay. I think it is even more challenging for working moms to juggle work and take on outside responsibilities. Focus on what is important to you and don’t be afraid to say no to nonessential responsibilities.
Okay, so you have decided to schedule self-care into your daily routine, but here comes the hard part….. Getting over the guilt! You have to get over feeling guilty for taking time for yourself. I admit that this is often challenging for me, but I try to remind myself that I need to take care of me in order to take care of my family. Plus you can’t deny that you feel great and more focused afterwards!
Ironically, the more you build in caring for yourself as part of your routine, the less guilty you will feel about it.
Hope you enjoyed reading!
Now onto do your favorite self-care activity.
Love,
Kate