This month we’ve been talking about self-care and the importance of making it part of our lives. Last week, our guest blogger Mommie Kate, had some simple self-care tips which many moms appreciated. Still, the issue of time stops many women from practicing self-care.
In our new book, Life Will Never be the Same: The Real Mom’s Postpartum Survival Guide, Ann and I devote an entire chapter to the obstacles that get in our way. Here’s what we write about making time for self-care.
1. Self-Care is a Choice:
“Children are demanding. They make their needs known. Messy houses scream: “Load these dishes” or “Make that bed.” Bosses inflict deadlines. Your needs sink to the bottom of the list. But, no one will make time for you or take care of you if you don’t. No one will realize your needs if you don’t speak up. Choose to put yourself first-at least once a day. ”
2. Adjust your expectations
“Another part of making time for yourself is adjusting your expectations about how much time is needed. Learn to think small. Take five minutes to practice deep breathing. Or take twenty minutes to disappear into the bedroom when your partner comes home. Use multi-tasking, too. Lie on the floor with a magazine, next to the baby while he has his “tummy time,” and coo to him. Walk or jog with your infant. Repeat to yourself, “Time for me is essential,” “My baby deserves a happy, healthy mom.”
For more ideas, preview our book at www.realmomexperts.com.
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