When you become a mom, you Self is put last. You start caring for a tiny human being who has no power and is fully counting on you for survival. Then, this tiny human starts growing and you start finding a balance, but most of the time, you find yourself exhausted and on edge about the smallest little things. You realize that if you don’t actually take care of yourself, your tiny human will end up being cared for less, because you’ll be too exhausted to care for him to perfection. So take on the offers to babysit and head out for an hour or 2 to self-care. Here are 5 ways to save your body and mind:
- See a nutritionist. Forget vanity, looking thin and avoiding people telling you you’ve gained weight. I started seeing Rouba when I had gained a few kilos and stopped feeling like myself. She helped me achieve a healthy lifestyle while still indulging in food. I still go for a monthly check up, because it makes me feel good, it helps me maintain my weight – which became essential for me after seeing how much energy it gave me, how much better I could take care of my child and feel less tired (especially after a sleepless night). Eating better is everything! It is good for your gut which, in turn, is good for you.
- See a psychologist or life coach. 7 years ago, I met a life coach who changed my vision about life. This is a huge thing to say but it’s true. His advice and statements sticked with me and help me out of situations till now. Since then, I’ve always wanted to see someone regularly. Coming from a psychology background, I always believed in seeing a professional to preserve your mental health. Needless to say, it helps you keep things in perspective, brings you back to earth and gives you tools to survive difficult situations. Mental self-care is related to physical self-care. The body gets tired of fighting the mind sometimes, and gives way to all kinds of diseases and physical unease.
- Walking or gym or dancing or whatever makes you happy to move. Since forever, my favorite workout has been walking. It helps me meditate and be alone with my thoughts.
- Take it slow. Not having a hectic life is not wrong. Our society puts so much pressure on having non-stop activities and people to see that we forget how important it is to just slow down. Night in with a book or Netflix on your mind for the 6th night this week? Do it. Let the guilt go.
- Say no to things you don’t want to do and to people you don’t want to see. Limit situations where you feel uncomfortable and stressed. You’ll lose people along the way, you’ll maybe fight with your husband, or mom, but with time, they’ll learn your limits and how to respect them. This is maybe one of the things I struggle with the most in my self-care routine. It is so hard to do what keeps you sane without justifying yourself to everyone.
And most importantly, be yourself. Do not let anyone or anything change who you are. That is true self-care!
Any other self-care tips? Comment to let us know!
