You’ve probably heard people talking about self-care lately. Scrolling through Facebook it’s hard to not see something related to self-care, “treating yourself”, or “taking time for you”. If you’re a mom (or soon-to-be mom), the idea of taking time to care for yourself might seem like a silly, unrealistic daydream. For a moment, you might picture yourself relaxing on the couch with a face mask and your favorite guilty pleasure TV show, until you think, “Ha! Like that would ever happen”. Indeed, pure relaxation is difficult to find when you’re busy caring for your family. But does self-care have to look like the picture described above?
What is self-care exactly and why should we bother making time for it? Check out the list below to better understand what self-care is really all about:
WHAT exactly is self-care?: The practice of purposefully engaging in activities that contribute to your health, both physical and mental. Self-care serves to recharge your batteries and improve your overall health.
WHY should I bother with self-care?: There are many benefits to self-care, including improved stress management, happier moods, healthier relationships, and a feeling of being cared for.
WHERE can I practice self-care?: Anywhere that is comfortable for you–at home, outdoors, or in public places.
WHEN can I make time for this?: Self-care doesn’t have to take up your whole day. Even just 10 minutes can have a positive impact.
WHO are these ideas for?: Any moms or soon-to-be moms looking to improve their quality of life.
WHICH self-care activities should I try?: The possibilities are endless! Here are 25 ideas to get you started:
- Going for a walk
- Reading
- Watching your favorite movie
- Taking a warm bath
- Picking up something special just for yourself at the grocery store
- Taking a proper lunch break
- Spending quality time with friends/family whether that’s at home or via video chat
- Taking extra time to snuggle with your loved ones or fur babies
- Engaging in your favorite form of exercise
- Trying yoga/stretching
- Drinking enough water
- Asking for help when you need it
- Giving yourself affirmations when you need them
- Taking a moment to look up at the clouds/stars
- Setting healthy boundaries with others/Saying “No”
- Meditating (check out YouTube for some great Guided Meditation videos!)
- Putting on your favorite music
- Writing in a gratitude journal
- Sitting down for 5-10 minutes with a cup of tea or coffee
- Taking a mental health day when you feel the beginning stages of burnout
- Getting to bed earlier for more ZZZs
- Lighting your favorite candle
- Giving yourself permission to make time for yourself every day, even for 15 minutes
WHAT else should I know? Self-care is all about what’s good for YOU. What’s best for you and your health might be vastly different than the needs of others. Focus on what your individual needs are.
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