If you’re a parent, you know what it means to feel exhausted and depleted. Many parents often say they don’t have time for self-care. Our advice is: FIND THE TIME! Self-care isn’t just a fad word, it is essential for a person’s well-being. Some people confuse self-care with bubble baths and indulging in tubs of ice cream. While that all sounds enticing, they are only small aspects of what self-care is. However, neither are going to sustain a parent long-term.
Below you will find 5 self-care strategies and ways you can incorporate them into your life, starting…now!
5 Self-Care Strategies For Parents
These self-care tips for parents are simple and effective ways to care for yourself so you can better care for your kids. While they may be simple, creating new habits can be difficult, so take your time instilling small, consistent habits that eventually transform into a way of life.
Schedule consistent “time off” for yourself
Being a parent means that sometimes sacrifice comes in the form of taking time away from the family. Even if you love being around your kids, “time off” is essential to regroup, focus on yourself, and come back feeling rejuvenated. Many parents feel the effects of burnout because of a lack of consistently taking time away to care for themselves.
Take care of your body
As a parent, your needs often fall by the wayside when there are more pressing matters. But you have to remember to take care of yourself too or it’ll be that much harder to take care of your family. Take care of your body by eating as well as you can, drinking plenty of water throughout the day, finding movement, getting outside, and prioritizing sleep.
Don’t forget to socialize with friends
Make time for doing things with your friends. Parenting can feel like a lonely business. Surround yourself with people who support you as a parent and as an individual, then prioritize time with them. You can go on kid-free adventures or plan a day where the kids can tag along!
Stay on top of preventative healthcare
Preventative healthcare may come in the form of getting enough sleep and staying hydrated. It also means receiving preventative screenings to stay on top of your health. Be sure to schedule routine exams to make sure you’re at optimal wellness and keep an eye out for anything amiss.
Spend kid-free time with your partner if you have one
It’s easy to feel disconnected from your partner when you’re in the trenches of parenting. It is critical to carve out time for just you two. This will keep the love alive and strengthen the bond in your relationship. When you consistently make time for each other, it can feel much easier to manage everything else because your cup is full.
The Takeaway
Self-care for parents doesn’t have to be complicated. What it really comes down to is nurturing your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Find ways to incorporate education, mental health support, exercise, and play into your days. If you want to live a fulfilling life and show your kids the value of prioritizing themselves model self-care in your daily life.
