Credit photo: unsplash
A boost of energy, a sense of gratitude, a bright idea—what wonderful sensations we feel when we invest a few minutes to self-care. It’s normal to dismiss the notion, thinking there is no time to spare for yourself. In fact, most moms report they are too busy looking after their loved ones to take care of themselves.
While that may feel like the right thing to do, busy moms who practice self-care help their children witness and internalize what it means to be healthy inside and out. Even with just a couple minutes a day, the investment creates a more balanced, present version of yourself—radiating centeredness to all those around you.
Here are 10 ways to sneak self-care into your daily agenda—because you deserve it!
#1 Find Your Place
Being a mother is the most important job you’ll have, but it’s important to connect to something that’s separate from your parental identity. Dedicate a small piece of your home or outdoor space just to ‘me’ time. Working on a project, writing in a journal, or reading a book in that special spot will help you stay connected with you.
#2 Turn Off the Alarm
Credit: unsplash
Sleep is the gas for your energy tank. Lack of quality rest can make you sluggish, irritable, and less alert. So don’t feel guilty if you make a lazy morning a priority now and again—it’s better for the whole family you catch some Zs. For new moms, learning the art of the 20-minute power nap when the kids are asleep can help restore your energy in the little time you have.
#3 Take the Stairs
If carving out workout time isn’t on the agenda yet, you can get a quick energy boost from forgoing the elevator. A study in the Physiology & Behavior journal found that women who climbed stairs for 10 minutes got a surge of energy equivalent to half a cup of coffee. The calories you burn are just a bonus!
#4 Take Care of Your Skin
Your skin is the canvas to a more confident you. For busy moms, Emilie Celine, facialist at Maison Ito, recommends making the nighttime cleanse a priority with a calming face massage. For best results, both outward and inward, she recommends being consistent in this bedtime routine.
Quick self-massage tutorial by Maison Ito x Style magazin (Schweizer Illustrierte)
with facialist Emilie Celine and beauty editor Carla Reinhard. Full article here
#5 Adopt a Positive Affirmation
This can be as simple as saying “I value my time and energy”, “I appreciate all the good things in life” or whichever notion you wish to attract in your life. It’s a refreshing —and scientifically proven— way to reinforce positivity in your life.
#6 Keep the Dream Alive
Think back to your old hobbies, career goals, and interests. Can you incorporate some of these things you used to love back into your life? Not only will it add a touch of romantic nostalgia but you’ll remain connected to that strong sense of identity that never really left your heart.
#7 Go Sugar-Free
You don’t need to forgot all the treats because just one sugar replacement opportunity a day can be beneficial to your health. Easy replacements for sugar cravings include cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg added to otherwise sugar-laden foods like your morning coffee or plain yogurt. It’s also an opportunity to nudge your children toward healthier alternatives.
#8 Plan a Girls Night
Credit: unsplash
Remind yourself and your mom friends that you have identities outside of being mothers. Plan regular get-togethers with the girls —mothers or not— where you listen and connect with one another as unique individuals. Promise that the evenings aren’t just for mom talk.
#9 Be Flexible
Stay committed to your choices, but flexible in your approach. As you incorporate these miniature moments into your routine, do so in a way that highlights self-care as a joyful sensation, not as a chore or a strict rule. Your kids will also benefit from this method. Children feel at peace when there is consistency in rules, but the flexibility of an extra treat or extended family time before bed once in a while is remembered fondly.
#10 Listen to a Novel
Do you like a thrilling tale as much as your children do? Getting lost in a good book every now and again can respark your sense of adventure. We recommend using Audible for mothers constantly on-the-go —or who love to multi-task.
If a mixture of adventure and relaxation has been calling your name, then head to one of these exotic destinations for a wellness retreat. These exquisite getaways offer luxurious accommodation, outdoor excursions and onsite fitness activities, plus a chance to connect with like-minded people who prioritize health and wellness.
Tell us, which self-care strategy will you incorporate into your routine today?
Read more about Maison Ito and face massages online:
BY KALEENA STROUD & EMILIE CELINE
#selfcare #busymom #momlife #workingmom #fitmom #busymomlife #parenting #motherhood #parenthood #family #mom #motherhoodunplugged #pregnancy #kids #babygirl #mumlife #mother #newborn #babyboy #momsofinstagram #pregnant #momblogger #mama #fatherhood #selflove #barcelona #maison_ito
Comments