If you haven’t noticed, self-care has taken the world by storm in the last year or so. If you’re a mom and haven’t hopped on board, it’s definitely time you do. This can take several different forms, but think along the lines of calming baths, a consistent, non-toxic skincare routine or maybe even just taking the time to sit down and read a non-parenting related book. Sounds amazing already, right?!
But if these things just sound like time sucks to you, let’s take a step back and look at the bigger picture. What self-care is really all about, especially for moms, is taking time for yourself. For example, having a slow morning in bed with coffee or being able to go for a walk alone. Afterall, studies show that taking time away from the kids and giving it back to yourself can actually help make you be a better parent. It also shows to have no negative effect on your overall relationship with your child!
So, if you’re new to this concept and want some ideas on how to get started with self-care, here are five things you can easily do for yourself.
Take a detox bath
Get yourself a dreamy smelling candle, some crystals, and the best detox bath salts you can get your hands on. This combination will make you forget all your troubles and help you sink into a nice, calming relaxation. Take some time to really soak and let the bath salt go to work—the longer the better! You can even combine this with the next tip…
Read a fiction book
Even if you’re not a huge reader, pick up one of the recent young adult best-sellers and dive in. Let your mind escape to somewhere else for an hour or two and you’ll come back feeling like a new woman. Having a good book on hand can also give you some “me time” to look forward to throughout the day, which is always a good thing.
Take a long, uninterrupted afternoon nap
Have your partner or the grandparents take the kids for the afternoon and sink into your comfy couch for an hour’s-long siesta. There are few things better than being able to doze off to sleep at your own pace and then wake up again in the same fashion. Parents, you remember this, right? If you’ve got extra time when you wake up, finish off your afternoon alone with a walk or quick yoga session to get your blood moving again.
Have some girl time
An afternoon or evening with girlfriends is a powerful thing in the world of moms. Yes, it gives you a chance to commiserate, but don’t spend all your time talking about the kids or how tired you are. Use this opportunity to talk about things you’re excited about or interested in that are just for you!
Do a brain dump
If you only have five minutes to yourself, take full advantage by doing a quick brain dump. If you’re not sure what that is, you’re going to love it. All you do is take a journal or even a sheet of paper and write down anything and everything that has been weighing on your mind. As you write everything out, you can kind of feel the stress of it all leaving your body. It’s an amazing self-care go-to when you’re short on time.
Showing yourself some love doesn’t have to look like an extravagant weekend at an expensive spa. It’s more about the small moments and things you should do for yourself when you know you need it most. You got this, mama!