For busy mothers, time is invaluable, and practicing self-care usually falls at the bottom of their priority lists. However, constant stress, fatigue, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion can lead to serious health concerns if left unaddressed. We must make time for ourselves, despite our busy schedules, to ensure that our needs are being met so we can continue to efficiently care for our family. Here are 11 self-care ideas you can start practicing as a busy mother.
Get moving
Health experts have repeatedly emphasized the importance of exercise to our overall well-being. Choose an activity that suits well with your lifestyle and fitness level. If you’re always pressed for time, find simple ways to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.
For instance, you can go for a short walk outside instead of scrolling through your phone during work breaks. If you have a green thumb, start a garden, and make it a point to dedicate time every day tending to it. You can also take your dog for a night run around the neighborhood or do a few yoga poses before turning in for the night. Exercising, even for a few minutes, can help revitalize you, giving you the necessary energy to conquer the day.
Start journaling
Journaling is one of the most inexpensive and therapeutic forms of self-care as it allows you to sort out your innermost thoughts and release pent-up emotions. Start the habit of writing down the day’s events, no matter how trivial they are. Use journaling as an outlet to cope with distressing emotions, especially after a challenging parenting experience or difficult work day. If you’re not fond of a handwritten journal, there are several free online journaling platforms you can utilize that will keep your daily entries detailed and organized.
Use social media wisely
If not used properly, social media can trigger negative feelings such as anxiety, self-doubt, and dissatisfaction. We tend to compare our lives with our digital friends’ curated feeds, making us unhappy with our life choices. Use your social media time wisely and make it a habit to unplug often.
Follow people who inspire you to be your best and unfollow those who make you feel you’re not enough. Even if they’re relatives or closest friends, do not be afraid to remove them from your friends list. You can also follow influencers, content creators, and pages such as Bizzie Mommy, dedicated to mothers, to help keep you motivated. Be mindful of the content on your social media feed and only follow accounts that provide relevant and empowering materials.
Eat properly
One common mistake of mothers is feeding their children first, disregarding their own nutritional needs. If you’re constantly eating last or simultaneously with your little ones, drop this unhealthy habit and eat when you’re hungry. Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid reaching for the nearest ready-to-eat processed food from the pantry. Always sit down at the table and remember to enjoy your food.
Learn a new skill
Mothers often feel guilty for doing something not child-related, letting their hobbies and interests take the backseat. Engaging in activities you genuinely enjoy is essential for your sanity. Go out of your comfort zone and learn a new skill or do something for the first time. Make it a point to nurture your mind and develop existing skills you already have.
Connect with loved ones
Motherhood can make you feel alone and isolated. Constantly connecting with your friends and family is essential for your emotional health. No matter how hectic your schedule is, reach out to your loved ones as often as possible. Take them out to coffee or dine at a new restaurant. A strong support system during these challenging times is critical to your overall well-being.
Say no often
While staying connected with your loved ones is essential, setting healthy boundaries should also be a priority. Learn to say no to unrealistic requests, and don’t feel obligated to do something you’re not up to. Many mothers tend to overcommit to avoid displeasing their family and friends, causing them to feel anxious and stressed out. Practicing self-care means permitting yourself to politely decline without feeling guilty.
Listen to a podcast or audiobook
Another self-care idea you can start practicing is listening to audiobooks or podcasts. Listen to one of your favorite books while cleaning the house or grocery shopping. Follow podcast creators with inspirational and empowering content. Listening to these forms of audio content is one of the easiest ways to enrich our minds and spirits.
Create a skincare routine
Creating a skincare routine is another overlooked self-care practice of busy mothers. It is vital that we take good care of our skin to prevent serious health problems in the future. If you don’t have enough time in the morning, commit to a nightly routine instead. You don’t need to use expensive products to keep your skin healthy; you can use kitchen staples and create your own beauty solutions.
Hydrate more
Staying hydrated is critical to ensure your body functions properly and prevents health complications. If you’re not fond of drinking water or tend to forget, carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times. Make sure you know how much fluid your body needs every day. Remember to drink frequently and not only when you’re thirsty.
Go for a drive
Driving alone without a definite destination is another way to de-stress after a long and busy day. Ask a trusted loved one to watch your kids for a few minutes and drive around your neighborhood. Listen to nostalgic songs or relaxing music and sing to your heart’s content. If you don’t want to drive aimlessly, you can park in a safe place and enjoy a few minutes to yourself before returning home. Driving alone can help you refocus after a challenging day, and be mindful of the present.
Being a good mother doesn’t mean sacrificing your own needs for the sake of your loved ones. Always make time for yourself and practice self-care habits that work for you.
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