This is not the first time I’ve written about self care
I know that self care is important. You know that self care is important. And yet, it’s still worth talking about, because we all need a reminder sometimes.
I’ve had a difficult couple of weeks with my mental health. My mood has been up and down like a yoyo. And I’ve been putting a lot of pressure on myself. From trying to get my blogging mojo back to setting myself a challenge to lose 2st in 60 days and weaning the twins, I’ve had a lot on my mind. It’s no surprise that I’m struggling a little bit.
I haven’t been making self care a priority
I’ve talked before about taking a little bit of time each day to do something just for you. Self Care doesn’t have to be about big gestures and spa days. But, sometimes, even taking a little bit of time each day gets forgotten about.
I’ve allowed my low mood to suck up all my free time. It’s not that I’m too busy for self care. Not really. I’m just too busy doing nothing. Blog posts aren’t getting written, housework gets done on a “quick! A client is coming in 10 minutes!” basis, and I’m not really doing anything I enjoy.
I’m not giving my best to the twins, either
It turns out, when I ignore my self care, I’m not a great mum. I’m not a bad mum. My kids get fed, washed and they survive every day in one piece. But we don’t have much fun. I mean, they have fun together. We’ve got more toys than Hamleys. But they don’t have much fun with me. I just don’t feel like doing anything. I find myself going through the motions, doing all the things I know I’m supposed to do, but it’s not the same.
I’m sure the twins notice. They always give me extra cuddles when they can tell that I need them. I know it’s not fair on them, really. They deserve a mum that plays with them and laughs with them.
If you don’t take care of yourself, how can you take care of others?
That’s the moral of the story, if you like. Self care is important, not just to you, but to those around you. A little bit of “me time” is especially important for mums. When I look after myself, I’m much better at looking after the twins. It often means the difference between getting outside for fun and fresh air, or spending the day in front of the TV in my PJs. I know which the twins prefer! Although, Jack is very fond of his PJs…
So, take care of yourself today
And tomorrow. And the day after that. Be kind to yourself. Don’t expect too much. Set yourself high standards, sure. But not too high. It’s OK to take care of yourself. In fact, it’s essential. Take just a little bit of time to do something that makes you smile. It’s the most important thing you’ll do all day.
One way to take care of yourself starting today is to get better sleep and rest. When you get a good night’s sleep you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and full of energy. You’ll be able to not only work toward achieving your goals with more motivation but will also be able to take good care of others too. You can get a better night’s sleep by having a calming bedtime routine and setting your room up for optimal sleep. Make it a relaxing space by painting the walls a soothing colour, decorating with plants and other natural elements, and installing decorative wall cladding. Together, these interior design changes and upgrades will ensure that you feel at ease when entering your bedroom and that you can fall and stay asleep throughout the night. Other self-care activities you can do to take care of yourself today are to eat right, exercise regularly, and find ways to reduce and manage your stress. When you’re getting enough sleep and taking care of your mind and body you’ll feel great and be unstoppable.
