Self-care is important. We all know this. I tell my clients about the importance of self-care on a nearly daily basis. I read about it all the time, nodding my head about how true it is. I put it on my list of things to focus on.
The problem is, this list is long. I’m a Mom of three. I’m a wife to a wonderful husband. I own and operate a small business. I volunteer for an organization that does great things in my community. These are all incredibly important to me. So, that’s when it starts to get real. Where on this list is there room for me?
This article is written by Nicole Keever
For more on this topic, check out the full Self Care collection
Scheduling In Self Care
It goes without saying that our schedule is pretty nuts. I bet it looks about the same as yours. In the last year, the calendar has included soccer practice, swimming lessons, guitar lessons, flag football, and sessions with our reading tutor. All of these things are in addition to the regular crazy schedule of work, volunteer committee meetings, and somehow getting dinner on the table every night while helping with homework.
Then add the nighttime routine of bath, books, prayers, and snuggles. Does this sound familiar to you? After this laundry list (wait, I forgot to mention laundry!) is completed each night, that is the time left for self-care before we collapse, exhausted, into bed to get up and do it again.
So how can we make it happen? I think we have some options. But first, we have to agree that it must happen. I say “we”, because I’m in this with you. We have to decide that we cannot de-prioritize caring for ourselves. We cannot allow showers or eating a satisfying meal to become optional. Sleep is not a luxury (at least not once our kiddos are able to sleep through the night!). So are you with me, Mamas? We are doing this self-care thing.
Making Self Care a Priority
First, we must decide to not allow it to have the space that is “left over.” Otherwise, sweeping the kitchen floor and wiping out the microwave will win every time. Let’s pick a time in each day (even if it’s short) that we will prioritize self-care.
It might be 10 minutes in the morning before the kiddos wake up. It might be 10 minutes in the car after you’ve done drop off while you’re sitting in your driveway or garage in a beautifully quiet, empty car. Or it might be heading to the office 10 minutes early and sitting quietly with your office door closed. Anytime throughout the day will do. Create an appointment with yourself – in pen. Just penciling it in will not do.
After we decide on the time, then we tackle the what. Self-care can mean lots of things. It means the physical act of caring for the body, but it also means tending to our emotional health. It’s the emotional health that seems to be harder to measure and sometimes harder to honor.
It could be reading a book in a quiet sunny spot in your home, completing a 10-minute guided meditation in the park, creating time for a chat with a neglected friend on the phone or, even better, at the local coffee shop, jamming out to a favorite song, or completing a devotional you’ve had your eye on. The “what” doesn’t matter as long as it speaks to your heart.
Self Care of the Physical Body
After we’ve shown ourselves some love by creating time and space for things that truly matter to us, we can also consider self-care of the physical body. Honor your body’s hunger and fullness cues- she’s an expert, she knows exactly what you need. Consider this your official permission to enjoy delicious foods free from shame and guilt that our culture might suggest should be there.
Give yourself access to enough water- for me ice cold water is the key to success. Rest when your body knows she needs it. This is true even if there’s still laundry to be folded or another episode in the queue on Netflix. All of it will still be there tomorrow when you’re rested enough to either tackle or enjoy it, depending on the task. Free yourself from any behaviors that cause you to feel sluggish, weary, or even ill. Take the time to schedule a doctor’s or dentist’s appointment for yourself- not just for your kids.
Moving Forward
At the end of the day, even self-care requires some preparation to make it work. I know, another thing on the “to-do” list. However, unlike everything else on your list, self-care will build you up, rejuvenate, and refresh you.
When you take time for yourself, you will move through the rest of your tasks with greater ease, focus, productivity, and joy. What a happy coincidence that what is kindest to you will also permeate the world around you. Give your kiddos the gift of a happier, more patient Mama. Give your significant other the gift of a less stressed companion. They deserve it. But more importantly, you do.
Take Care,
Nicole
BONUS TIP: AWARENESS OF POTENTIAL RISKS
Self-care can encompass various activities, from enjoying a relaxing bath to engaging in a fulfilling hobby. However, it’s essential also to prioritize physical self-care. This includes knowing the body’s needs and potential risks, such as staying hydrated and getting regular check-ups. While indulging in self-care, remember to avoid harmful practices, like using hair relaxers, without considering the potential risks, such as those highlighted in recent hair relaxer cancer lawsuits. Instead, opt for safer alternatives, such as having a salon treatment or exploring natural hair care methods. By being informed and proactive about your physical well-being, you can genuinely make self-care a holistic priority in your life.
For more on this topic, check out the full Self Care collection
Featured Contributor: Nicole Keever, MS RD LDN
Nicole Keever is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in helping clients of all ages establish a healthy relationship with food at Mid Atlantic Nutrition Specialists. Nicole lives with her husband & 3 young children.
- Website: MidAtlanticNutrition.com
- Facebook: @MidAtlanticNutritionSpecialists
