I want to talk about self care. Let’s keep it real moms – we live a hard life. It’s wonderful and full of rewards, but there’s nothing easy about being responsible for the lives of tiny human beings.
The up and downs of motherhood are extreme. From the time we get pregnant with our kids all the way to their adulthood. We are constantly tired, busy, cleaning, and trying not to lose it all at the same time. We are hardly ever alone, not even when we pee! When we do get a moment to get away, it is like time goes into overdrive!
You’re not alone mama. I am right here with you.
Even though my son is my world, there are days where he leaves me feeling like my world is coming to an end. And in a way, it has. The moment I became a mother, my world was no longer just about me – it’s all about him!
It’s safe to say that most moms are overworked and overstressed. It’s true whether they are stay-at-home moms or working a 9 to 5 job. We are all guilty of constantly putting ourselves last – after our kids, their dad, the pets, our job, and an endless list of errands. However, being everything to everyone can cause our nerves to go on the edge. That often leads to a mom who is short-fused and high tempered! That’s not the way we need to be for our children or our partners.
When mom gets burnt out, everyone in the household will suffer. Your family will feel those negative vibes. Even a baby will become fussy and more irritable when mom is upset. If you have toddlers or older children, they may respond to your mood by acting out. We all know that doesn’t help at all.
This is why we have to start making more time for ourselves!
Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s necessary for our survival.
This is easier said than done, right?
Putting yourself first when you are a busy mom or mom-to-be first requires intentional choices.
It means you choose to take back your energy.
You choose to do things that are just for you.
You choose to take time away to feed your mind, body, and soul.
For many of us, these choices can be difficult or even make us feel guilty. Don’t believe it! The truth is, by paying attention to your own needs, you’ll be better at meeting everyone else’s. Even if they complain about your absence, your family will enjoy having a refreshed, energetic, and more patient mom.
Trust me.
Here are 3 simple ways you can show yourself some love and get on the path to having a more balanced mom life.
1.) Schedule a monthly day for self-care
I hate to admit it, I’m not always good at including self-care in my day (or month), but I’m getting better at it. What has really helped me get better at it is actually committing to a day and time for self-care.
It’s easy to tell yourself that you will get that massage or make that spa day happen. However, it’s even easier to cancel or make excuses for not getting around it it. The simple act of actually scheduling a day for self-care in your calendar is can make all the difference. Set the date, make that appointment, book that trip! Doing so will keep you accountable and give you something to look forward to.
Whatever you do, don’t sell out or try to reschedule your special time. Make sure you show up for yourself!
2.) Get up at least 30 minutes before your kids wake up
Ok, I know what you’re thinking. Getting up early is bad enough, but waking up before the kids is just INSANE! How is that self-care, Nicky?
How you wake up will set the tone for your whole day. If you are rushed out of your sleep by a screaming baby or child, your body instantly has to jump into mom mode, and you will be stuck in mom mode for the ENTIRE DAY.
When you wake up early, instead of “sleeping in,” it eliminates that feeling of rush in the morning. You can start your day on a happy note. That is the positivity you need to stay with you throughout the day.
Personally, I have found that waking up about an hour before my toddler actually makes my day run much better!
It doesn’t matter what you do with the time, as long as it is about you. Enjoy a nice cup of tea, take a shower alone, or read a book. Step outside and enjoy the sunrise! For me, an early morning meditation does my mind and body good.
3.) Go somewhere NEW
Sometimes self-care is as simple as getting out of your comfort zone. As moms, routine is inevitable. We often fall into a pattern of doing the same things each day for our families. Before we know it, we are just going through the motions. This can make us feel bored or even depressed. It’s time to shake things up a bit Mama!
Going somewhere new doesn’t have to be as big as booking a trip to a foreign country – but if you – can I say go for it! Somewhere new can simply mean trying a new coffee spot or shopping in a new boutique store. Maybe you and a friend can attend an event you’ve never been to or try out that new restaurant in town. There are endless opportunities to go somewhere new, so don’t limit yourself to what you’re used to. Changing things up can make you feel excited and happy, and that’s what self-care is all about!
