Imagine this: it's 6:30 AM, and while you're still half-asleep, the kids are already bouncing out of bed, ready to start their day. You rush through making breakfast, packing lunches, and getting everyone out the door. You only had time to throw on some yoga pants under the t-shirt you slept in with your hair is thrown into a messy bun. By the time you finally have a moment to yourself, it's already mid-afternoon, and you're barely hanging on. For many moms, finding even a few minutes of alone time can feel like an impossible luxury.
According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly 80% of mothers report feeling overwhelmed by the demands of parenting and household responsibilities, with many struggling to find time for themselves amidst their busy schedules. Does this sound like you?
We all know that self-care is essential for overall well-being because it helps maintain physical, mental, and emotional health. But, as moms, we tend to ignore our own needs. We all need to be reminded that effective parenting relies on a parent's ability to be present, patient, and supportive; self-care ensures that we are refreshed and able to give our best to our family.
Let's discuss a few self-care practices that fit into a busy mom's schedule.
5 Minute Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment, without judgement. It involves focusing on your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings in a calm and non-reactive way. It reduces stress by focusing on the present, calming the mind, and decreasing anxiety.
Micro-Breaks
Take small breaks throughout the day. For example, take a quick walk, stretch, or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea.
Morning Rituals
Starting the day with a simple ritual can set a positive tone for the day. Some examples might be to make your bed, enjoy a quiet cup of coffee before the kids wake up, journaling, or listening to uplifting music.
Evening Wind-Down
End the day with a calming routine. Some examples of this could be to take a warm bath, read a book, or practice gentle yoga or stretching.
Involve the Kids
Incorporating family time into self-care can be both relaxing and fulfilling. Some ideas of family activities that also provide self-care are cooking together, playing a game, or going for a nature walk.
Schedule "Me-Time"
It is important to set aside specific times for self-care. Choose a consistent time each day for personal time, such as early in the morning or during a mid-day break/nap. Start with 10-15 minutes to ensure it fits easily into your schedule and can be maintained consistently.
Seek Support
It is important to reach out for help when it is needed. You can find support in many forms in a variety of places. You can join mom groups on Facebook or at a community center or church, seek a therapist you align with, or ask for help from friends and family.
Pursue Personal Hobbies
Find a hobby that fits into your schedule. For example, if you love reading or podcasts but don't have time to sit and read, download an audio book app and listen while you do house work or while driving. Other examples of hobbies could be crafting, creating scrapbooks, sewing, exercising, or cooking.
By prioritizing our own well-being, we, as mothers, can better manage the challenges of parenting and create a healthier more harmonious environment for our children.
Make self-care a priority. Add it to the top of your to-do list. This planner does a really good job of helping mothers to slip in a few of these self-care practices daily.