SELF-CARE PRACTICES FOR MOMS!

Self-care for moms shouldn’t be optional. Do it for yourself. 

If being a mom has taught me anything, it’s how easy it is to neglect ones self because there’s so much going on all at once. It can be sad watching yourself go from someone who reads multiple books a week, take evening walks, do yoga to being too busy round the clock that you go to sleep tired and wake up tired. 

Motherhood is no easy fit and these little selfcare practices would not only make your life much easier and enjoyable but also, being connected to the core of yourself helps you be a loving, joyful and patient parent. 

Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect and it’s not all or nothing. Just little efforts to take good care of yourself. 

SAY NO; PROTECT YOUR SPACE: 

As mothers, there’s something about wanting to do everything or feeling guilt of not doing enough but you have to say no to these thoughts because it’s okay to not be in control of everything. 

Everyone seems to always have opinions on what you should be doing and what you are doing wrong. News flash, the only  important opinion is yours. Learn to say no to relationships that increases your stress level or makes you unhappy. Protecting your space and surrounding yourself with great positive energy is a right step in building a positive mindset towards self care. 

The early stages of creating boundaries would get a little uncomfortable but it comes with great peace. There’s no one way to mother. 

UNPLUG: 

This is one of the most difficult self-care practices for me because like many mamas, my brain works around the clock. Completely detach yourself from everything else and focus on yourself. 

Things to do when you unplug: 

• Be still: take a moment to yourself and just look around you and take it all in. Pace your breaths, unclench your teeth and reduce the tension in your shoulders. 

• Declutter: This can be tricky and also get tiring easily but if you can, try to declutter aspects of your life you’ve overlooked. This could be your wardrobe, any space in your home or your relationships. 

• Step out: A few minutes taking a walk or doing a quick run clears your head and helps blood circulation like other physical activities. Watch the sunset while at it and just be. 

• Netflix and chill: Catch up on your favorite shows and have some healthy snacks. Have a good laugh and just enjoy your alone time. 

• Help someone: There’s great joy that comes from helping someone in need that uplifts your spirit. It could be a smile, an idea or an advice. 

• Create a quiet space: It’s time to stop hiding in the pantry or toilet and actually create a little quiet corner for yourself. Let your family know to steer clear the moment you’re in your quiet corner. Light some candles and catch your breath. 

• Go to bed early: Working all day is draining enough, some mamas like me still get obsessed at night times clearing things up and just being restless. Go to bed early to you can have an early start to your day. Trust me, this is something I’m working on as well. 

PAMPER YOURSELF: 

You have probably been tending to the kids and your body is sore, or you haven’t gifted yourself nice things in a while, pamper yourself. 

How to pamper yourself: 

• Relax in a hot bat or take a well deserved long shower.

• Plan a spa day; get a massage or give yourself a facial if you’d rather be home.

• Cook your favorite meal; if you’re one of those people who find cooking therapeutic, you would love this as opposed to cooking when you’re angry to get the tension off. 

• Sneak in a nap: You are probably already sleep deprived and all you might need is a good rest. Put on your humidifier and have a good sleep. 

• Plan a vacation: If you can manage to get 3 days or a week off, a quick change of environment is refreshing. Have a good time shopping and splurging on your favorite flowers. Your soul will thank you. 

REFRESH YOUR BRAIN 

Before you forget the many things that motivates you, reawaken your brain and brush up your skills. 

• Read a good book: I almost forgot what reading a good book felt like but 16months after having my daughter and I’m slowly taking it one page at a time. It’s great to have something fill your mind asides diapers, food preps and school assignments. 

• Sketch /draw: The days you probably drew flowers on the edge of your notepad are long gone. It doesn’t have to be perfect, little effort every now and then let’s you know you still got it mama. Flex on yourself. 

Journal Keeping || It’s Benefits and my Mistakes || 2018 -01-31

• Write in a journal: Write about your morning, your day, what bothers you or what you aspire to. Just put your thoughts in words and if you have enough courage, go back to read it days later to see if anything has changed.

• Meditate/ Yoga: The most peaceful 10 minutes of my morning is my yoga time. Connect with yourself and prep your body and soul for the day or night. 

• Dream about you: This helps keep your dreams, aspirations, goals or whatever you call it alive. Think about the many places you want to visit, the ones you’ve visited and things you’ve achieved and give yourself some accolades. 

• Listen to an energizing podcast: Either during chores or just taking a rest on the sofa, listening to people who fuel your spirit is great for your mental health. 

CONNECT WITH FRIENDS

Trust me I know how life comes at you fast and  you go from having 2 brunches in a week to a “we could see” that doesn’t happen in months. It happens but you have to plan for it like you do anything else because friendship are just as important. 

Ways you can connect with your friends 

• Plan a girl night out or sleep in: This could happen absolutely anywhere from your friends house, to hotels or even your home if you feel up to it. Having some moments with your girls is definitely soul lifting. Chat about good times, dance to some good music and eat some cake. 

• Go window shopping: This by far is one of my favorite things to do with anyone. So what if you don’t have money to splurge, I do this on my shopping apps every now and then but it’s even better in physical stores with your best girls. 

• Have brunch: Will food never not be an option sis? I believe the best conversation happens after a good meal and don’t forget to take some cute pictures for memories and your insta.

• Book club or mom group: If you hate notifications or group chats, skip this one. Having a group of like minded moms you could easily chat with and share concerns would help you feel less alone. Someone has definitely gone through it and their advice might be the light you need. 

GET SILLY

Go to a comedy show and have the laugh of your life or watch from the comfort of your homes. Just have a good hearty laugh. 

• Dance in your living room: My partner and I have the just dance game that we use for this. Trust me, you’ll burn some calories and have a swell time and even the kids can join in. 

• Host a game night: Too tired to step out? Host a zoom game nights with family and friends. Hopefully you win some so you don’t go to bed cranky 😂

• Sing along to your favorite song: I occasionally do this when doing chores and even dance while at it. 

Would you like a post on how to make chores fun? Comment below. 

CREATE AN “UNWIND” TREASURE BOX

This should be a box you reach out to for basic self-care essentials. 

Treasure box content:

Tea, healthy snacks, sunscreen, lotion, cough syrup, favorite blanket, nail polish, essential oils, candles etc

PRACTICE GRATITUDE 

Finally, practice gratitude and just marvel in the joy and beauty of being a parent and all the blessings that have come with it. Kiss your babies and tell them how much you love them. 

Also do this by re-prioritizing and asking for help when you need it. Be happy with the beauty of being a parent. 

Remember, this is not a step by step guide, rather things you can pick depending on how you feel and what is accessible. 

To the new moms out there, there’s no one way to mother. Take it one step and a time and you’ll be fine. Also, the baby cannot fall of the floor. 

Do you already practice any of these tips? Have they been helpful? What are your favorite self-care practices that have been helpful to you? Share below

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Love, Meedah!