Why Self Care IS NOT Selfish
Yes, even as a mom! I know this comes as a struggle for us mamas, but I'm here to tell you, self care is not selfish; it is 10000000% NECESSARY.
When was the last time you did something for you? (And I should probably add to that -And didn’t feel guilty for it?)
I’m not just talking about fluffy stuff like bubble baths, pedicures, shopping trips, etc. Yeah, that kind of fun & frivolous self care is great too, but I’m talking about true, RAW, care-of-self; nourishing yourself body, soul, mind, and spirit.
As a mother you have a BIG JOB. You take care of tiny humans 24/7 -who let’s be honest, can be wild most of those hours. You also run your household, have a hubby, friends, a job, a social calendar, fill-in-the-blank….It’s A LOT.
And if you’re not taking care of yourself, it can leave you feeling exhausted, worn out, burnt out, and *gasp* even resentful towards those you love! You know the saying... "You can’t pour from any empty cup!" THIS is exactly what it's referring to.
There is no trophy for being the most run down version of yourself. Sometimes, I feel like motherhood ends up being this excuse to allow ourselves to be run down and worn out; where even a shower feels like a luxury. But why does it have to be this way?
Yes, there are legitimate times and seasons that are harder than others; but when we live in a perpetual state of being run-down and worn-out, something’s not quite right. But here’s the deal: it takes conscious effort to take care of yourself, and again, I’m not just talking about frivolous stuff like bubble baths and chocolate. Yes it makes you feel great in that moment, but it's not really a long term solution.
I’m talking about true SOUL care; taking care of yourself from the inside out. Doing things you love, taking time for yourself, investing in your physical and spiritual health.
So... what does help you refill your cup (sorry for the cheeseeeee)?
Really think about it, because self-care routines are not a one size fits all. It looks different for every single person out there!
A daily routine that I've stuck to for awhile? Getting ready in the morning!
I love getting dressed in a cute (yet cozy!) outfit, putting on my makeup, and a few other favorite things (*cough cough* JAK Sprat earrings *cough cough*).
Actually, something I'm trying to be very intentional about this new year is taking better care of myself; inside and out. I want to be the very best mom I can be, and I know to do that I need to make sure that I'm also putting into myself; not just constantly putting into others.
Does that mean ignoring the dishes in the sink and watching a movie with my husband instead every once in awhile? YEP.
So... here are some simple ways that I nourish myself, try them out if you like and adjust to what feels good to you!
Get more sleep! (Yes, sometimes that means stop the scrolling, putting my phone away and going to bed EARLY)
Read a book for enjoyment (not just self-help and parenting books!)
Learn more about something I enjoy.
Use essential oils and find new blends that I love.
Do a DIY just for fun.
Color. (Yes, I find coloring therapeutic sometimes.)
Take a nap.
Go for a walk.
Eat a good meal (No, the leftover chicken nuggets from your kid's lunch doesn't count.)
Have a dance party, solo or make it a whole fam affair.
Journal.
Read my Bible.
Do an emotional release.
Write.
Sing.
The list could go on and on.
These may seem simple and silly to some, but I've found it can be very life giving to do the things that I love. Taking even small moments to put into myself goes a long ways towards making sure that I can continue to put into others; ya feel me?
And if you're not doing anything, or struggle in this area, I challenge you to take some time to yourself today; and not feel guilty about it!
Remember Mama, you’re not meant to live your life in a perpetual state of being worn out and run down; you were meant TO THRIVE.
From one self-loved mama to another,
