Self-Care – Most Essential but Neglected Part of a Mom’s Life

Do you agree that Self-care for Moms is essential but usually get Neglected?

As soon as we lay our eyes on our little bundle of joy, our life takes a new turn! Suddenly it’s all about the baby! And it should be that way to a certain extent as we can only raise confident, happy individuals if we nurture them well. But while doing so, most of us mothers neglect the basic foundation of our lives which is self-care.

The daily routine demands constant attention and energy from us that we are left with no energy to do anything which is necessary for our well-being. In all these, it is evident that our children and their health becomes the foremost priority. And then is the comfort and health of our near and dear ones. But while doing so, do we realize that maybe a little self-care for moms can go a long way in helping us become better mothers and also in taking care of our emotional and mental health as well?

Whenever we talk about self-care for moms and me-time, the emotion of guilt raises its head. We feel we can use that time in some other productive work. But little do we realize that taking care of ourselves is actually the most productive thing we can do! A happy and relaxed mother means a happy family.

You may want to read:

1. Beyond Baby Blues: Coping with Postpartum Depression
2. Why Mothers Need Some ‘Me’ Time and How to Get it.

For most of us living without any extra help, it might seem like a distant dream but if you have the will and the drive to help yourself become a better version, a little self-care is not impossible.  I myself, being the mother of two daughters below the age of five had completely thrown the word “self-care” out of the window.

But yes, it didn’t take me long to realize that it was not only hampering my mental health but also my ability to nurture my kids and my family in a better way! Now, I make sure to keep some time aside for myself every day so that I can rejuvenate my physical and mental health.

You will find many articles on the web today talking about self-care for mothers. And the fact that this topic is of such great importance today is because of a few reasons.

First, more and more families are nuclear families today.

Second, due to rapid globalization people are living in every corner of the world far from their immediate families.

Third, more women are working outside the house compared to earlier generations.

Because of these reasons, the network of support systems has highly diminished. Now the “whole village” doesn’t have the time or access to help you. So, it’s basically up to you to nurture the family maybe with occasional help. However, the importance of this topic has also revealed that we are also waking up to the realization that mothers are burning out and they need help. Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant or include high expenses. Little things that I am pointing out below can make a great difference.

Self Care for Moms Isn’t Selfish: 5 tips to make it work

1. Set aside time for yourself

Choose a time that you feel is the most convenient and ensure to engage in activities you love. It might be a walk or reading a book. Or even a little exercise. Even a few times a week will provide you with a much-needed break. Even if it means pushing some other work down the priority list, it is perfectly okay. Cleaning the room can wait but cleaning your soul cannot.

 

2. Grooming is important

As a new mom, there had been days when I have even struggled to comb my hair or wash my face. A long bath or a shower seemed like a luxury. Please don’t ignore that. A little fixing can improve your mood and increase your confidence! It just takes two minutes to comb your hair and a few extra minutes to take a shower. Don’t deprive yourself of that. If you are a working mom, take that extra five minutes to groom yourself before rushing out of the door. It can add a spring to your steps.

You may want to read:

1. Awesome Fashion Tips for women over 40
2. 7 Positive Changes We Can Adopt For Successful Parenting

3. Seek help

Sometimes help is just a request away. If you have friends and family around, just ask. You will be surprised by how many people are willing to offer that helping hand. Hire a babysitter or ask a friend to step in when things get too overwhelming. Or asking your spouse to step in from time to time can make a huge difference. Many times women don’t want to bother their husbands after a day at work. While it is funny to know that most men are just waiting for directions!

 

4. Get your sleep

My husband and I had always tried to give each other time and space to catch up on some lost sleep once in a while. A few extra hours of rest are not only necessary but extremely beneficial for our health. Even a weekend nap can provide you the much-needed rest.

 

5. Nourish your body

I have heard many mothers, especially of younger kids say that they eat whatever they get in hand or can prepare in the shortest time without considering its nutrition value. Not only is this unhealthy but can also take a toll on your body in the long run. Mothers need nutrition more than ever as you have not only supported and raised a baby inside you but are also looking after your children’s needs day in and day out.

You may want to read:

1. Foods and Facts for Good Lactation and Postpartum Health
2. Intermittent Fasting – The Latest Trend in a Nutshell

Taking out some time for yourself or leaving the baby alone for some time with your spouse or a babysitter is not a selfish act. Nor should it make the mother feel guilty. It’s the most natural thing to do to take a break once in a while. I personally feel that I have become a calmer and happier mother after I have taken the time to engage in activities I love. I love my children to death but I have also learned to love myself as well. Just soaking in the bathtub offers me the most needed solace. Or a glass of wine alone on the patio at the end of the day is relaxing.

Do you agree with me that self-care for moms is important? Hope this article inspires you to think more about yourself! Only when you are in good physical and mental condition can you offer the best to the people around you!