Realistic Self Care for Moms 2020
Updated: Jan 3, 2020
Hey Mamas! Are you ready to step into this new decade with a bang? No? Well that's okay. You don't have to sprint, you can walk. In fact, let's walk together. Let's set some realistic goals for ourselves & start our new adventures as moms, overflowing with self care & self love!
More often than not, we let our mom-duties overshadow our true needs & not experience our passions that are unrelated to motherhood. In 2019, I was so concerned with getting more than 5 hours of sleep daily, having a clean home, running my business, & having time at the end of the day for my husband. But this year, my word in focus is Growth. I want to emphasize growth in my fitness, mental health, marriage, & overall wellness. To achieve a better me, so that I can then be a better mom & wife, a top priority must be Self Love.It's not easy avoiding the mom-burnout but let's take a look at some ways we can care for ourselves & ultimately achieve self love. I will also list some great apps to help with mental & emotional wellness.
Ways to love & care for yourself:
1. Stop Comparing
Mama, we live in harsh world. Some may try to judge you for your mothering-ways, but don't listen & don't compare. You have a system that works for you & your family so don't compare yours to another's. Every parent has their own routines & outlets, find yours & don't look over your shoulder. You do you!
2. Learn to Say No
Sometimes, okay...often times, we over commit ourselves, therefore leaving our body & minds so drained at the end of the week or month. I used to have a habit of over scheduling my off days & not letting myself chill out. It's important for us as moms to set boundaries for ourselves. Say no when necessary because it's essential to your mental health.
3. Embrace Yourself as an Individual
Your life has been forever changed in becoming a mama; you've met your new body, your new patience, & you've accepted who you are as a mother. But wait, you're still a person. Motherhood doesn't define you as a whole. Find ways to truly know yourself & learn to embrace YOU. What makes you happy? What makes you tick? Relearn your strengths, weaknesses, & where you may fall short. Learn what you're darn proud of that makes you unique. Embrace the things that it's inside you that no one else has. You're not just a mother, you're so much more.
4. Find Your Hobby
Think back to what life was like before mommy-hood. What did you do that genuinely made you happy? How can you bring that back to life with a new twist? Is there anything you've always wanted to try or may be curious about? Do it, girl! Fill your own cup for once!! Find a hobby unrelated to mommin', & make it your own!
5. Get Active
No, you don't have to become an athlete. But find ways to keep yourself moving throughout the week. Walk, jog, cycle, yoga, HIIT, Barre, walk your doggo. Anything to get you moving because let's face it, not only is this extremely healthy for your overall fitness, but also your mental health! Just move, girl!
6. Go Outside
Yes, even in this cold Montana weather lol. Bundle up & go for a short walk or hike outside. Try to embrace the outdoors when you can! There's something so freeing about being outside. It genuinely makes me happy to be outdoors.
7. Drink More Water
Okay, listen. I know we all have crazy schedules & being a mom, means your schedule can be rearranged at any moment with the slightest baby toothache or toddler tantrum. I've been okay in the last 6 months about drinking my water, so this one hits home for little 'ol me. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
8. Go Out With the Girls
Coffee date, shopping, yoga, movie night, day trip, you name it! Girl dates are essential for mamas. We need to feel human again after being a human bar tap for these milk-hungry babies! Plan a girl's trip without the kiddos as soon as you can. Shoot, schedule this one bi-weekly to keep your gears turning, girlfriend!
9. Touch-Therapy
What? Yes. Snuggle up with your husband, significant other, baby, or even your pup to feel some comfort. Physically bonding with one another has been proven to release serotonin, a happy chemical in the brain to help us feel less stressed, & more calm. Heck, go get a massage!
10. Talk to God
Pray, talk, listen to Gospel music or sermons, worship, etc.. Find ways to strengthen that bond with our Lord. God, Jesus, ..they will not fail you. You are so loved & for so many reasons! I also need to take more time to be present with God. My growth in 2020 will also be focused in this vital area! As mamas, we're that much closer to God & may even have a tiny microscopic view into how he sees his creation, as we have made or raised our children. Loving another human so hard, no matter what, is exactly how we are loved by Him. Let's, together, make this one a top priority mamas!
Top apps for Mental Health & Wellness:
Remember mama, you are powerful, loved, cherished, & there's nothing you cannot do if just set your mind to it every day. Need a mom-friend? Don't hesitate to reach out to me, I'm here! Don't hesitate to say a quick prayer when needed. Go into this new decade with purpose, & make yourself a priority!
God Bless,
Emily
**all iPhone and Professional images on this website are taken & owned by Emily Lollar Photography unless otherwise stated.