Self-care. We hear that a lot. Because it actually is super important for mamas. We get so tied up in housework and taking care of our child(ren) 24/7, that we very often forget about ourselves. It’s sometimes difficult to find some “me time” as we get lost in the equation. However, if we don’t take a few minutes every day to take care of ourselves, we can burn out.
We often think of self-care as going out for a day or an overnight, going to the spa or hair salon. For some, maybe most mamas, that doesn’t seem realistic. But if I told you that self-care can be done in much simpler and smaller ways and that it doesn’t always involve planning or much of your time…wouldn’t that be reassuring?
Here are 8 ways you can take care of yourself:
1. Take a Walk
Even if that walk is around the block, some fresh air can do us all some good.
I personally force myself to get out, just for 5 minutes, to take a few deep breaths to reset myself. The sun also has amazing benefits for our mental health and you get some of that vitamin D!
2. Exercise
You don’t need a gym. You can look on youtube for free workouts, such as yoga. You can also just have a little dance-off in your living room with some really good music. Exercise, as most of us know, is very good for our mental health as it secretes endorphins. It doesn’t even need to be for too long. But getting your body to move can definitely do you some good.
3. Sit Down With Your Coffee or Journal for 5 Minutes
You can try doing this when your baby naps. And trust me, I know, there are some kids that don’t nap for long, but you can at least get a few minutes in there. Just sit down with a nice hot (or cold!) coffee (or tea!) and enjoy. You could also start journaling if you like doing that.
4. Take a Nice Long Shower or Bath
After your kids are put to bed, take a nice long relaxing bath or shower. We bathe our kids before bed time because we know it relaxes them for the night. So… we should do the same for ourselves! Light some nice candles and enjoy!
5. Car Ride
This is actually my favourite. Even if my child is in the car, a car ride is what resets me for some reason. Take the time to breathe and listen to some music.
6. Watch a Movie/Show in Bed at Night or Read a Good Book
When the kids are asleep, turn the TV on and watch a new show you’ve been wanting to watch for some time! Or that book you’ve been dying to read…do it! Sit back, relax and have a little laugh.
7. Order Out Some Food Once in a While
Yes. I know. It can be expensive to order out. But you need a break. And why not enjoy some nice food? You can decide to order out once a month on a Friday. As you wish. But take it as a well-deserved treat because you’ve been working really hard and you need that break.
8. Keep the House Chores for When the Kids Are Awake – Sit down and Relax When They Nap
This one, in my opinion, is crucial. At least, for the most part. I used to constantly find something to do in the house when my baby napped (laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning) and it burnt me out. I felt like I couldn’t even get a second to myself because I was non-stop having to think and do.
I’m sure it could be hard to resist the urge to go do that laundry, but it could wait until they’re awake! Also, it’s actually nice for your kids to see how chores are done!
You just need to slow down…
Conclusion
It’s not always easy to find the time to take care of yourself. You’re taking care of little humans and their needs always take precedence to yours. But allow yourself little joys in your day, even if it’s just for 5 minutes. You need it. You deserve it. You’ll feel good to have done it.
You will certainly come up with your own ways to take care of yourself, and it might look nothing like what other mamas do!
What is your form of self-care mama? Please comment!
2 comments
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