As mothers, we are often so caught up in the responsibilities and tasks of parenthood that we forget or simply do not have time for our own needs. Our loved ones tell us to find time for self-care, but that often seems more like a buzzword than an actual practice or skill. Sure, we can bathe ourselves and eat a yummy snack in the school pick up line, but can we really hope for self-care routines that are more satisfying, real, and sustainable?
We all know that basic hygiene is essential to stay clean and healthy, but it is far from being enough for real self-care. Self-care for mothers should go beyond the basics and include activities that bring us joy, peace, and nourishment.
This doesn’t mean we need to book an expensive spa day or take a luxurious vacation to some exotic location. Instead, we can start with small changes in our daily lives to incorporate self-care into our days. We should include time for hobbies, time for friends, and time alone for ourselves. We should allow ourselves to take that break to read a book, watch a movie, or even just take a nap. Self-care is all about finding balance and taking charge of our own needs.
Don’t let anyone tell you that putting on mascara or ordering food delivery counts as quality self-care. You need more than that, and those around you need to step up and support you. We can help by offering suggestions for real self-care practices below.
READ MORE: 10 Easy Mindfulness Activities for Children and Their Families
Real Self-Care Strategies
When it comes to self-care, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Every mother’s self-care needs will be unique. That’s why it’s important to get clear on your own goals before committing to any self-care practice. Identify what activities and habits make you feel good and then make an effort to include those activities in your life.
One effective way to practice self-care is to take time to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. It requires being aware of your thoughts and emotions without judgment, and it helps to cultivate self-compassion. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and increase your emotional and mental well-being.
Another self-care strategy is to engage in activities that bring joy and pleasure. This could include anything from going for a walk in the park to reading a book to creating art. Or, maybe it involves talking to a friend or family member about your feelings, exploring your interests, or trying out new hobbies. These activities can boost your mood, reduce stress, and help you to reconnect with yourself.
Making sure to get enough sleep is also essential for good mental and emotional health. Getting adequate and consistent sleep helps to improve your overall well-being, as well as your emotional and mental state.
Note that all of these self-care activities foster emotional and mental growth in some way. They all do something to improve your emotional and mental health, as well as your overall well-being. You’ll notice that these growth opportunities are not simply about maintaining health or cleanliness; they are about living life to the fullest. So, here are a few further examples to ensure you are choosing quality self-care practices.
- Showering to be clean is a basic need. Opt for a luxurious bath time with salts, soaps, scrubs, and bubbles to unwind your busy mind and take care of your skin.
- Alone time for chores is effective and efficient. Opt for time to do a hobby that you enjoyed in the past, or learn a new skill altogether.
- Running to the store alone is handy and convenient. Opt for time with friends at a restaurant, or go see a movie or theater production that piques your interest.
- Quiet time to catch up on emails or fold laundry in peace is basic. Opt for time to read a book, take a nap, or call a friend to find more connection in your life.
Self-care is an important part of maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Don’t diminish self-care to running a brush through your tangles. Instead, engage in activities that promote emotional and mental well-being and foster personal growth.
READ MORE: 6 Simple Ways to Improve Self Motivation
Creating a Self-Care Toolbox
Self-care routines often get thrown to the wayside when life bombards you with illnesses, chores, extracurricular activities, and other stresses. It happens, and we all understand that sometimes, we do have to put our needs aside to care for our kids. Still, your care, growth, development, and happiness are important, and they should have some level of priority in your life.
Some people thrive by creating a self-care toolbox, an essential for mothers who need a break from their busy lifestyles. A self-care toolbox is a collection of activities, items, and habits that are designed to help you relax. This toolbox can include things like aromatherapy candles, coloring books, mindfulness exercises, massage oils, books, inspiring quotes, and anything else that makes you feel calmer and more balanced. When you are ready for some time to yourself, find a quiet spot and break out your toolbox! You’ll feel relaxed and calm without having to spend money or book calendars!
Side note: You can send a self-care box to someone who needs a little TLC. Pack one yourself or use a service like BoxFull to get your friend started on a positive, sustainable self-care journey.
A toolbox on hand can also help you plan ahead when it comes to self-care. Having a plan will help you (and your partner or family members) see your self-care time as legitimate. Having your time on your family calendar or scheduling app will prevent other errands from popping up and taking your attention away from yourself. Even if you only have a few minutes blocked out on the calendar, or if you have a bad day and just need to take moment away from the chaos of life, you can turn to the toolbox you have on hand and feel renewed.
Creating a self-care toolbox is not just about finding activities that make you feel better, but also about taking ownership of your own well-being. Making self-care a priority and having a plan to follow when you need it can help you make sure you’re taking care of yourself.
READ MORE: Ideas For Self-Care: 27 Brilliant Products To Pamper Yourself
Get It, Girl!
To summarize, self-care is an important practice for mothers – and for everyone. It doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. Self-care is simply about paying attention to your individual needs and committing to taking actions that support your well-being. Self-care for mothers can include anything from taking a long, hot bath to getting a massage. It can also include emotional self-care, such as taking time out for yourself and finding meaningful ways to connect with others and your community.
Remember, you deserve real self-care. You need more than a minute or two to brush your teeth and change your underwear. Make the plans and ask for help from others to ensure you get time to truly take care of yourself. You are worth it.
WANT TO READ MORE?
Check out 21 Selfcare Ideas To Benefit Your Body & Your Sanity for more decorating tips and tricks!
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