As a mum, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, always putting our little ones first. From the chaotic mornings to the sleepless nights, being a mum is a beautiful yet demanding journey. The responsibilities that come with motherhood often leave little time for oneself but remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your family.
Whether it’s treating yourself to a long, relaxing bubble bath, savouring a hot cup of tea, and diving into that book you’ve been meaning to read or taking a full day out to fill our cup. In this blog we will chat about why self-care is important and explore different ways to integrate it into our lives and make it a natural part of your day.
Why is self-care essential for mums?
Physical Health:
A mother’s well-being directly impacts her ability to care for her family. I know myself if I allow myself to get exhausted and rundown I see the ripple into how I ‘mum’. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep are vital components of self-care that can boost energy levels and overall physical health.
Mental Health:
Motherhood can be emotionally draining, when they just won’t go to sleep or have an answer back to everything you ask. Taking time for self-care allows us mums to manage our stress, anxiety, and emotions more effectively. It is essential to nurture our mental well-being to provide a stable and loving environment for our beautiful children.
Role Modelling:
By practising self-care, mums set an example for their children on how to prioritise their own well-being. Plus you can always get them involved in some self love and create memories. Teaching the importance of self-care encourages a healthy lifestyle and self-respect in the next generation which they can continue to pass on.
Improved Productivity:
When mums take time for themselves, we recharge, refresh and become more productive. A well-rested, mentally balanced mum will be powering through her never-ending ‘to-do’ list and feeling fab at the end of the day.
Different Ways Mums Can Prioritise Self-Care:
Schedule “Me Time”:
Allocate dedicated time each day in your calendar just for YOU. This can be as simple as reading a book once your children are asleep, taking a long bath, or going for a walk. Scheduling “me time” ensures you prioritise self-care amidst your busy schedule of running a household, children, work and life in general.
Exercise:
Engage in regular physical activities that you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, jogging or dancing. Google the term ‘asstitude’, you can’t do it without smiling so get those kitchen dance parties going. Exercise not only benefits your body but also releases endorphins that boost your mood, double win!
Healthy Eating:
Make conscious choices to nourish your body with nutritious meals. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet to maintain energy levels and overall health. There are some amazing recipes on Nourish with Renata’s blog.
Delegate, Seek Help and Learn to Say No:
I know we are supermums and all that, BUT you don’t have to do everything alone. As they say it takes a community to raise a child. So delegate household chores and life admin, or consider hiring help (a cleaner or childminder) if possible. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from family, friends, or professionals. Learn to say no when necessary and set clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. It’s okay to decline additional commitments that might overwhelm you.
Connect with Others:
Socialise with friends and schedule in a coffee date, join a local mum’s group, or engage in activities that foster connections. Sharing experiences and concerns with others who understand can be incredibly comforting and rejuvenating.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation:
Incorporate mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or guided imagery into your routine. There are lots of free videos on YouTube or you can use an app such as Calm. These practices help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and clarity to your being.
Get Enough Sleep:
Aim for sufficient and quality sleep, you can generally work out how much sleep you need per night to function to your best. Establish a bedtime routine, set a bedtime reminder on your phone if need be and create a relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom to ensure restorative rest.
Pursue Hobbies:
Rekindle or discover a hobby that brings you joy, whether it’s painting, gardening, writing, or playing an instrument. Hobbies offer a creative outlet and a chance to unwind.
Professional Help:
One we don’t necessarily think of when we think of self-care however, if you’re struggling emotionally, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide valuable insights and coping strategies.
Retreats/Events:
Attending a retreat or event without a friend can be scary but it can be full of endless possibilities and most importantly a specifically crafted time for you to invigorate all of your senses and fill your cup until it is overflowing. That is exactly what I do with the Mums Retreats I create, I create a balance that will fill up all of your being, (read more about the next one below).
I’m sure by now you can agree, prioritising self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for mums. By taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, mothers can be better equipped to provide love, support, and care to their families. Remember, a happy and healthy mum positively impacts the entire household. So, take that well-deserved time for self-care and embrace the benefits it brings to both you and your loved ones.
I’m reminding myself that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s a necessity. ✨
To all the amazing mums out there, remember that you deserve love, pampering, and moments of pure bliss. Take this day to embrace self-care in whatever way brings you joy and rejuvenation. You are incredible, and you deserve every bit of care and happiness. 🌟
