What is self-care and why is it important for moms?

What is self-care? Self-care is the art of devoting time and energy to the things that fill you up such as reading, running, meditating, spending time in nature. It is essentially doing anything that helps to fulfill some of your needs and desires, which re-energizes your spirit and renews your energy. Well, that is how I define it. Self-care is a buzzword, right now. Having a wellness, nutrition and exercise science background – I am thrilled to see more awareness around this concept.

There was a time when I indulged and even overindulged in the art of self-care. In those days, before I was a mom, I likely did not even use that term because the acts of self-care were not elusive and did not require a label. It was a daily practice of things I did as a commitment to myself that was non-negotiable.

As a mom, there were times when I relished in the idea of self-care, desiring more time for myself to do those things I love. When I don’t make space for me and the things I love, I see it in my mood and how I respond to my husband and my children. I am less patient and feel a little resentful, which does not feel good.  I found ways to make it happen. I have learned that by prioritizing my ‘to-do’s’, saying no more often to things that matter less, and yes more to the things I love, that I can fit in some time for me . It is a continual work in progress, but I can tell you it is possible. Yes, it is true that finding time to commit to ourselves takes a good amount of prioritizing, soul searching and planning. But happen it can. Schedule your time as you would any other appointment and commit to it. Start small, and see how it goes and how good it makes you feel.

I am a strong believer in taking care of ourselves so we can take care of our families. Self-care or ‘mom-care’ is an essential part of this. We have to find ways to let our own desires and loves weave into our daily lives, which ultimately creates more energy and a sense of peace that we can bring to our families.

“As a mom, we have to make self-care a priority. In fact, let’s rename it ‘mom-care’ and declare it a must.”

So, let’s get honest with ourselves.  What are those things that fill you up? What did you once do that you miss doing? What have you longed to try, but keep putting off? It’s time. Go do those things, And here is how:

1. Make a list of your top 3 things that fill you up.
2. Pick the #1 ‘mom-care’ item to start this week, and start small. Is it a walk every day? Has it been a while? Start with 5-10 minutes… then build from there. Is it reading or finishing those books on your nightstand. (Truth: I have quite a few books I have started and need to finish and I do this All.The.Time.)
3. Take some action and make that #1 thing your priority this week and get in the practice of creating space for it.
4. Next week, swap or add in the second ‘mom-care’ item from your top 3 list.  Then follow suit for the third week by swapping or adding in that third ‘mom-care’ item.
5. Evaluate on an ongoing basis what is working, what feels good, and what you could replace or try next.

Best of luck! Let me know how it’s going in the comments below!

Posted by Sarah & filed under Blogs. This post has 3 comments.