Everyone needs a bit of self-care, especially mums!
Let's be honest; motherhood is a juggling act of epic proportions and juggling self-care when you're a mum is even worse!
From newborns to teething toddlers to moody teenagers, being a parent is full of endless demands, rewards, sacrifices, sleepless nights, countless interruptions, and many, many beautiful moments.
As a mother, we have a mile-long to-do list, and by default, we often end up putting ourselves at the bottom of this list; sometimes, we don't even make a list at all.
The idea of being a "superwoman" who juggles housework, parenting, careers, and relationships can take a serious toll on our wellness. Skipping meals, eating junk, not sleeping, skipping health checks and appointments are all counterproductive and lead to severe physical and mental problems over time.
Self-care is not 'one-size-fits all' and can often mean something different to each person; however, we have put together a list of five considerations:
1) The real consequences
According to research conducted by the HSE, more than 200,000 Irish women experience distress due to pregnancy or parenting every year. A further 10,000 experience mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety, including fatigue and uncontrollable worries.
Often lack of awareness about what is and isn't 'normal' means that sometimes these issues go undiagnosed. While there are many resources to help women transition into motherhood, there is very little focus on the importance of self-care. Self-care when you're a mum can come in many forms, ranging from doing small things for yourself to seeking the support of family and friends to asking for help from health professionals.
2) Self-care is a necessity, NOT a luxury
Not everyone immediately embraces self-care – it's seen as a bit of a luxury. A bubble bath over my children? Not a chance!
However, it's essential to understand what self-care is and what it's not. Proper self-care when you're a mum is not a quick fix; it is a practice and a commitment to continue to be and feel our best each day.
For mothers specifically, self-care can mean having a 'toolkit' for daily living rather than a 'break glass in case of emergency' escape plan. It can mean sustainable and manageable practices that promote well-being and allow us to get through parenting and personal challenges.
Ultimately, self-care can be the life vest that keeps us afloat and should be non-negotiable.
3) Put yourself back on the list
'What's good for mum is good for the baby'. Mothers hear this often from the moment they become pregnant, but how often do we take the time to think about what's best for us?
To be the best mum you can be, you must first feel good and take care of yourself. The great news is that taking actions towards looking after yourself allows you to share more of who you are with those you love.
4) Stay connected to yourself
If you don't make space for your self-care, it isn't going to happen. Start small by penning in just 15 minutes a day just for you.
Ask yourself, aside from my kids, what else brings me joy?
Make a list of 10 things you love doing or perhaps ten new things you would like to try out.
Keep this list top of mind by placing it somewhere prominent, like on your fridge. Utilise stolen pockets of time each day to work towards implementing these things back into your life.
5) Stay connected
It's expected that when babies are introduced, extended family members, friends, and sometimes even partners tend to take a back seat.
Motherhood can feel lonely and isolating, so having a sense of community and friendship is more important than ever.
Signing up to a local parent group or meet-up, making time for a regular phone call with a friend, or scheduling date nights with your partner are all great ways to help maintain a healthy mum-life balance.
Equally, getting enough sleep, adding exercise to your routine, and feeding your body with nutrient-rich foods is essential when it comes to taking care of yourself.
Supplements are also a great way to support your body and fill any nutritional gaps that your diet lacks; KeyForHer can help at every stage of your life.
