Taking simple steps each day and setting some goals for yourself can make a big difference in your outlook and health for the new year.
Self-care, today’s buzzword, is actually the most important way to stay positive, healthy and happy every day of the year. We moms make sure to prioritize our children’s health, scheduling regular checkups, immunizations, and dental and eye appointments. And packing their healthy lunch is a no brainer, but we often neglect our own needs. It’s simply what we do!
As this new year begins, why not try a little harder to be kind to yourself? This does not necessarily mean making those pesky resolutions, but it means reminding yourself that you are a valuable part of your family, and the better you feel, the better a mom you’ll be.
No matter how tired you are, try to make the effort to wash your face before bed. A warm washcloth applied to your face for even a few minutes will do wonders. Always apply moisturizer, whether your favorite is from Clinique or Olea or Estee Lauder. And at least a few times a week, take that extra five or 10 minutes to exfoliate with a Clarisonic brush and cleanser.
For another treat, many facial masks can be applied for just 10 minutes and then washed away with warm water. Trader Joe’s has a variety, including rose gel, clay detox, pineapple papaya enzyme and more, all online.
A number of years ago, my mother made me a satin pillowcase, and it is my go-to for a soft end to the day. The silky fabric keeps your hair smoother and doesn’t dry off those facial moisturizers. My mom swears by it, and her mother and grandmother did too, making them on their sewing machines for the girls in the family. If you’re not a seamstress, you can find them online.
Now that your face is pampered, pay attention to your frame. An exercise ball is truly a simple way to stretch your back, ease tension and prepare you for a quick batch of sit-ups. Whether you do it after morning coffee, at midday or before settling in for the evening, enlist your kids in your workout routine. Have one sit on your feet as you recline on that exercise ball to add weight to your leg lifts!
When you make a doctor’s appointment for your child, make one for yourself at the same time. If hers is on Tuesday, make yours for Thursday. Stack dentist appointments and go when your kids go, so everyone gets healthy teeth. Do breast self-checks in the shower and keep current on your mammograms. This is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your children. Visit a dermatologist once a year to check for any skin changes. And visit your gynecologist at least once a year, even when you’re not pregnant. It’s important to keep yourself in good working order.
Lastly, grab sleep when you can. Nothing does a body more good than getting enough rest. A groggy mind makes for irritability and can even make you more susceptible to illness. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help either. If you feel overwhelmed, you might be surprised how happy that older neighbor would be to watch little Jenny while you take a shower or a nap, or just put on your makeup.
Mommyhood is not an easy job. During pregnancy most moms find it easy to take great care of themselves. They don’t smoke and they try to eat healthfully, sleep regularly and exercise faithfully. After all, they’re growing new lives within. That resolve trickles away for most of us when we hear that first newborn cry and we shift to spending every moment caring for that little human. Remember, that child will learn from your example. If you drink eight glasses of water a day, so will she. If you lead by example and go running, he won’t forget that throughout his life.
Looking after yourself is not selfish. In the long run, you will be a better person for it. More energy is one of the best things you can give your child, and that comes from taking small steps through each day to feel better.
Some quick, free ways to care for yourself!
- Go for a walk, either alone or after dinner with the kiddos.
- Work out or practice yoga to release endorphins.
- Schedule a playdate and enjoy quality adult time with a friend while the kids play.
- Reading, whether fluff or quality, is a great escape.
- Go to the park and swing with your kids!
- Take a bubble bath.
- Phone a friend and actually talk. Hearing another’s voice is a great boost apart from social media.
- Cuddle a pet or go to a pet shelter and walk the dogs. You can’t help but smile when they wag those tails!
- Volunteer at a homeless shelter, Hope House or your church. Give and you shall receive.
- Take a nap!
Sources: OurFamilyWorld.com, HealthyChildren.org, VeryWellFamily.com
An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.