When you think about moms self care, what comes to mind?
Eating right? Exercising? Getting enough sleep?
While these ideas are great and important to do, there’s a lot more to it than that.
Self care is more than just taking care of our physical bodies.
It’s also about taking care of our minds and our spirits.
As busy moms, taking care of ourselves usually isn’t in the forefront of our minds.
You might not even realize that you’re neglecting yourself and your needs.
I mean, we’re usually the ones taking care of everyone else.
So who’s taking care of us?
We should be!
That’s why I’m sharing self care tips for moms that will apply to all mothers.
Whether you’re a new mom, stay at home mom, or a busy mom (which is pretty much all of us!) these hacks will work for you.
And they go beyond just eating right and exercising.
Self Care Ideas
Love Yourself
Why is self love so important?
Because if we don’t love ourselves, we won’t worry about taking care of ourselves!
Now I’m not talking about being conceited or proud…not at all.
But seeing yourself the way God sees you.
As a wonderful mama who is capable of great things.
You have a purpose!
No one is perfect and you don’t have to be either.
But you are special and have a lot to offer not only your family, but the whole world.
Once you learn to love yourself, self care becomes much easier.
Set Boundaries
Being a mom doesn’t mean we’re always available to help anyone at any time.
Of course I believe in helping people.
But I don’t believe that you have to say yes to everything.
In fact, I think you should say no more than you should say yes.
Over committing ourselves leads to overwhelm , frustration and exhaustion.
And that’s not good self care practice!
You should feel peace about what you do for whom.
If it’s something that is causing you frustration, don’t do it!
Alone Time
Taking Me Time is something all moms should do.
Whether you leave the kids with your husband, take them to grandmas or hire a baby sitter, you need time where you can just be you for awhile.
If you don’t have those options, try to sneak in the other room while they watch a movie for a few minutes of alone time.
Or do it during naptime.
Yes it’s not the same as going out I know, but hopefully in time you can have supports in place that will allow you to do this.
It really is so important for your mental health.
Have a Routine
Creating a self care routine is as simple as making sure you regularly practice self care activities.
It can be a daily routine, weekly routine, or even monthly routine.
Although I think it’s wonderful to practice daily self care, if once a week or even a month is what you can do now, then do that.
Do what you can with what you have where you are.
I remember when my kids were babies, I didn’t get away as much as I would have liked.
I was exclusively breastfeeding, and so I was limited on the time I could spend away as once they wanted mama, I’d get a phone call.
Although it was difficult, I still would try to get away when I could, even if it was only for an hour.
But I was often resentful because it wasn’t as much as I needed.
Take the time, mama. Set your routine and make sure everyone knows about it.
You don’t have to feel guilty for taking time away from your kids to focus on you, period.
Self Care Activities
Of course we can’t talk about the practice of mom taking care of yourself without giving you a self care list!
I’ve broken this down into ideas that free or inexpensive as well as tips on where to go and things you can do.
Free Self care ideas for moms:
- Take a bath- Make sure someone is watching the kids or that they’re entertained.
- Go window shopping- or just browse the isles at Target, Hobby Lobby or your favorite store.
- Read a book- Put on a movie for the littles and get your reading on!
- Eat chocolate (and don’t share!)- Yes, you might have to hide in the closet for this one!
- Take a nap- If you have kids that nap, nap with them, or take advantage of help from older kids, friends or family members.
- Develop a skin care routine- it doesn’t have to be expensive and can be as simple as washing your face every night before bed.
- Try Yoga- Emphasis on the word try as this isn’t for everyone.
- Pray- No special environment needed…pray anywhere, anytime.
- Journal- Get those thoughts out of your head and on paper. It really does create a release and you’ll feel better afterward!
- Get out in nature- go for a walk, run, hike. Or my favorite, go hang out at the beach.
- Work in your yard or garden- if pruning trees and planting flowers and veggies is your thing, go for it!
More Simple Self Care Ideas
- Pick up your favorite coffee and drive around town with the stereo blasting while you drink it.
- Have your nails done.
- Go shopping at your favorite store.
- Have lunch with a friend.
- Attend a concert- music is good for the soul.
- See a movie- or you could just Netflix and chill at home if the kids are keeping busy.
- Spend a weekend away- with or without your significant other.
- Take time for your hobby- whether that means you get out of the house or work on it at home. Just do it!
- Visit an animal shelter- because who doesn’t feel good after seeing puppies and kitties?!
- Have a spa day.
- Take a class- have something you’ve been wanting to learn? Check out your local college or community center and see what’s available.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It means you will be refreshed and rejuvenated after taking time to focus on you. And that, my friends, will make you a better mom.
I hope this post Self Care for Moms- Helpful Tips You Need to See has inspired you to make taking care of yourself a priority.
Remember that motherhood matters and you are good enough. Ans always, enjoy the journey!
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