Let’s face it – life is quite different when you welcome a baby. You used to have a lot of free time to do just about anything you wanted to, but now you have a whole human who depends entirely on mom and dad. Your sleeping schedule is all over the place and you’re lucky if you are able to sleep 4 hours straight. Your bathroom trips are interrupted by bangs at the door and those little hands under the door calling for attention. The list goes on…
I know you’re tired, mama, and while it’s easy to put yourself last, your family is only as strong and stable as its foundation is – and that foundation is you. So, don’t go feeling guilty for taking care of yourself, you 100% deserve it!
Here 10 self-care ideas to help you recharge that mom power!
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- Set aside “Mom time” each day: Allocate a small amount of time every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes, for yourself. This can be used for anything you enjoy, such as reading a book, taking a nice bath, or to simply lie down and relax. It may seem like something small, but those minutes to yourself can serve as a major mood booster.
- Prioritize sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and establish a bedtime routine to help you relax and wind down before bed. I know this can be difficult, especially when you have a never-ending list of tasks you want to complete before the day ends, but the lack of sleep can be detrimental to your mood and overall health.
- Go for a stroll to your favorite store – There is something very therapeutic about some retail therapy or even window shopping. I personally have a very intimate relationship with Target and like to peruse the aisles any chance I get.
- Practice mindfulness, meditation & Prayer: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and prayer can help reduce stress and increase feelings of peace and calm. It can help relieve the stress and all other emotions you would like to unload. You can start with just a few minutes each day and work your way up to longer sessions. It’s always comforting to find that peace in middle of a prayer or meditation.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise has numerous physical and mental health benefits – we’ve all heard this one too many times because it holds so much truth. Benefits include increased energy, mood, and self-esteem. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, whether it be a HIIT class, a walk, or a workout at home.
- Eat healthy and nourishing foods: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help you feel your best. Make an effort to limit junk food and sugary drinks, which can lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness. If you struggle with this, you can start by implementing one healthy food choice a day or by cutting down on the amount of not-so-healthy food you eat a week.
- Connect with friends and family: There is something about a good talk or hangout with friends and family that can lift spirits instantly. Social support is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Reach out to friends and family members for support, or join a mom’s group or online community for a supportive network of mothers.
- Take breaks and engage in hobbies or activities you enjoy: Doing things you enjoy can help boost your mood and reduce stress. Set aside time each week for a hobby or activity you enjoy, whether it be gardening, painting, or an at home manicure/facial. These are actually some of my favorite for an at-home spa experience:
9. Delegate tasks to others: Don’t be afraid to ask for help and delegate tasks to others. Whether it be asking your partner to help with household chores or hiring a babysitter for a few hours, delegating tasks can reduce stress and increase your overall well-being. While it seems that mom-guilt is always looking to get the best of us, push it to the side mama, there is no shame in getting a little help.
10.Remember to be kind and gentle with yourself: It’s important to be kind and gentle with yourself, especially as a busy mom. Don’t be too hard on yourself for not being able to do it all, and instead focus on what you have accomplished each day.
Incorporating self-care into your daily routine can help busy moms feel their best and reduce stress. By prioritizing self-care, you can improve your overall well-being and be in a better headspace for your family.
XOXO,
Diana Colibri
