To all the mamas out there!
We are constantly putting our families first, so I am writing this blog to remind you that you have to take care of yourself, too! Moms need to be reminded that self-care is not selfish. As hard as it is to get our self care in with busy schedules and getting coverage for the kids, we must make time for ourselves. It’s so important for your overall well-being. Self-care looks different for everyone, so you must find what makes you feel happy and the most complete!
When we take care of ourselves, we are putting ourselves first so that we can be present for everyone else. I strongly believe that when we are taken care of and feeling good about ourselves, our health & inward & outward beauty shine! When you physically and mentally feel good, you are in a good place to take care of your family, kids and everyone around you. You have to be able to fill your cup before you can fill everyone else’s.
I like to think about the airplane mask analogy when it comes to self care. The flight attendants always instruct you to put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others. The reason for this is because if you can’t sustain yourself, chances are you aren’t going to be able to help your family and children.
Here are my top 6 tips for prioritizing yourself as a mama! What does self care look like to you? What makes you feel complete?
1- Make a plan & stick to it! It’s a non-negotiable
It definitely takes some planning, but make these plans a week or month in advance.
- Pamper yourself with beauty appointments that make you feel like you.
- Workout (before the kids wake up, hire a sitter for an hour)
2- Focus on the physical
Physical activity is so important for living a long healthy life and it sets a great example for your children. Kids mimic what you do. I love to see my kids lifting light weights with us in our gym on the weekends!
- Take a walk
- HIIT workout
- Whatever it is, get blood pumping through your body. Moving your body outside gives the extra endorphin boost
3- Find Time For Your Friends Or Partner
Set that time aside for date night or get together with friends in advance.
- If we don’t prioritize the other relationships in our lives, it can leave us feeling lacking.
- Kids are not our only identity, even though it’s one of our most important ones.
4- Unwind & Breathe! Give Your Brain A Rest!
Peaceful time is really important, especially in the hustle and bustle of today’s busy world. It’s okay to sit down and dump out the day!
- Schedule peaceful time
- Take a bath, meditate, spiritual time, find peace in yourself
5- Don’t Neglect The Basics On The Daily
As silly as this may sound, prioritize your basic needs!
- We are constantly running around making sure our kids have everything for the day, but remember the fundamentals like drinking enough water, getting enough sleep & eating healthy.
- If we neglect the fundamentals we will feel run down and won’t have enough energy to take care of others.
6- NEVER STOP Chasing Your Dreams & Passions!
Just because you are a mom to your amazing children, doesn’t mean you have to give up on your goals. It’s awesome for your kids to see you work hard, chase your dreams & goals. Continue to pursue things that excite you and make you happy, whatever that may look like!
Lastly, moms should always feel beautiful & sexy!! Never forget what a beautiful human you are both inside and out! Write that on a sticky note & hang it on your bathroom mirror. A daily affirmation to remind yourself you are strong, beautiful and capable of all things each day will bring you!
I hope this makes you stop and think about how important you are! Ditch the mom guilt, and remember taking care of yourself is the ultimate example you want to set for your kids.
How do you want your daughter or son to be when they grow up? You want them to take care of themselves too. It’s important to treat your beautiful body right & take care of your mind too!
XO-
Racquel
