As you well know, motherhood is a 24/7 job. Whether it is 2 am or 2 pm the needs of your children always take priority. As a job that doesn't allow you to clock off for the day, it can leave you feeling exhausted, and emotionally drained. Although moms are superheroes, eventually even superheroes need rest. Rest doesn't always mean going to bed early or squeezing in a nap but could be as simple as relaxing. Instead of living off an "empty gas tank" try these 10 essential self-care practices for busy moms:
Establishing routines: Not only do routines give us the illusion of having our lives together, as creators of habit, having a good morning and night routine promotes a better mood, increased productivity, reduced stress, and regulated sleep patterns for better quality sleep. These routines can include waking up and going to bed at a similar time and possibly even a skin care routine, working out, meditation etc.
Creating a time for YOU: Whether you decide on waking up 30 minutes earlier, taking an extra long shower, or coordinating a few hours a week to seek individual interests, having time for yourself is one of the best ways to keep your cup filled.
Get your body moving: Not only do you feel productive and burn some calories, your body also releases 'feel good' hormones that naturally improve your mood! It could be as simple as going on a hot mom walk with your kiddos, or doing some relaxing yoga. Trust me, and thank me later. ;)
Delegate Tasks: There is so much to do! Laundry, dishes, picking up the house, taking care of the kiddos, and so much more! I'm convinced all moms feel like this burden is theirs to bear alone, but let's be real, taking all these tasks upon your own shoulders can be TOO MUCH. So ask your partner to help with a task or invite your mom over for a baking day. You are amazing, but no one person can do all that all the time. Take some stress off yourself. The people that love you want to help!
Learn to say no: If anyone could do it all, you could! But nobody should have to do it ALL. Sometimes we can overcommit to more than we can handle. If it's too much, it's best to just say no, especially if it is something that will drain you. You can do a few things really well or you could do a lot of things and barely keep your head above water.
Nourish your body: I will say it all day, everyday. FOOD IS FUEL! Nourish your body with real nutrients that are going to give you natural and long lasting energy. (Come back in a few weeks for a guide on fast nutritious meal ideas!)
Get ready: Something as simple as jumping in the shower to feel clean, curling your hair, putting on makeup etc. can make you feel more confident and lead to a better more productive day! Take a few minutes to feel your best. You deserve it! (PSA: When I get into a really bad mood, taking a bubble bath or jumping in the shower allows me to not only relax but to do something to control how I'm feeling when I feel as though I may not be able to control my situation. Give it a try next time you feel overwhelmed!)
Start off your day with a Bible study or gratitude journaling: Taking a few minutes in the morning to remember your purpose and goals and to be thankful can transform your mind to a place of gratitude and peace. A good Bible study will also put tools in your tool belt to get through the day and to help keep a positive attitude when things get challenging!
Brain Dump: When your brain can't stop thinking and continues to go over everything you need done this week, take out a sheet of paper and write down every single thing you are thinking about. Then take your thought and visually organize them into different lists to put your mind at ease. A bonus is getting to cross them off throughout the day when you get something done!
Be realistic and learn to forgive: Everyone has those days when absolutely nothing gets crossed off the to-do list. So take time to remember that you are not a robot and there are days that will be less productive. Give yourself grace for the days when you are stuck in survival mode. Your emotional health is worth more than a crossed off list or a perfectly aesthetic life. And in case nobody told you today: I am so proud of all the things you do that go unnoticed.
Remember, self-care is not selfish—it's essential for your well-being and enables you to show up as the best version of yourself for your family.
I challenge you to choose one of these or one of your own ideas and make self-care a priority this week. YOU deserve it, mama.
Xoxo Michaela <3
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