Self care is rapidly becoming a hot topic in the world. For whatever reason, a greater awareness is rising on the need to take care of yourself.
This is a good thing, in the proper perspective.
But what does this mean for moms? You’re probably already thinking, “I don’t have time for that!”
It’s true that fitting in time to take care of yourself can be difficult if you have kids. For some, it can even feel wrong to be thinking of yourself instead of your kids or the pile of laundry that needs to be done.
Before we get into why moms desperately need self care, let’s talk about what self care is and isn’t.
What Self Care Isn’t
1. Self care isn’t selfish
Let me be honest, sometimes I feel super selfish when I want to do something for myself.
You know, like sleep.
Or shower.
Or have a few minutes to play a game all by myself without anyone else around–whatever it is that helps you recharge.
Truth is, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish.
Now, if everything is all about you and what you want, that would be selfish. But taking care of yourself so that you can function properly is not selfish.
2. Self care isn’t neglectful
Proper self care doesn’t neglect everyone else’s needs.
Taking the time to do something for yourself doesn’t mean that the kids won’t get fed. They may need to wait five minutes so that you can finish getting dressed in the morning, but their needs aren’t being neglected over it.
On the flip side, consider the fact that if you fail to take care of yourself as well, you’re neglecting yourself. You don’t have to neglect yourself in the effort to not neglect your family.
Related: How Busy Moms Make Time For Self Care
3. Self care isn’t irresponsible
It is most definitely not irresponsible to take care of yourself.
This thought process plays back into the fear that you’re neglecting your family by taking the time to do something for yourself.
The mom guilt that fosters this thought process is completely untrue. You can still take care of you and be a responsible parent.
What Self Care Is
Related: Friday Reads: Self Care Ideas for Moms
1. Self care is replenishing
Taking care of yourself is essentially refilling your cup so that you can pour into others.
If your cup is empty, you won’t have anything to give anyone, whether that be time, attention, energy, or whatever.
It is absolutely essential to regularly replenish your own cup so that you can use it to pour into others.
2. Self care is putting the oxygen mask on first
You know how right before take off on an airplane the attendants always tell that if the need arises, to put on your own oxygen mask before helping others?
Being a mom is kind of like that.
Yes, moms regularly make huge sacrifices for their families.
But if you don’t take the time to take care of your essential needs, how will you be able to take care of anyone else?
3. Self care is being responsible for both you and others
Is is completely responsible to take care of yourself.
You most definitely won’t be able to take care of others if you are dragging through the day yourself.
Take the time to practice at least a few minutes of self care everyday. It will make the world of difference.
Why Do Moms Need to Practice Self Care?
So why does it matter whether or not moms regularly practice self care? I think at this point the answer should be fairly clear.
Moms simply cannot take care of others if they themselves are worn down to the bone.
You have to take a few minutes for yourself.
It’s not wrong.
It’s not selfish.
And you don’t have to feel guilty about it.
Let’s be honest, moms regularly pour everything they have into their kids and families.
It is absolutely–nonnegotiable–essential to refill yourself, re-energize, and refocus.
Take some time for you today!
Do you have a specific time or activity you like to do to take care of yourself? Share it with me in the comments below!
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