Self care is an important element in caring for your family. We nourish our families with our selves. If you are feeling empty, anxious and stressed that is what you are giving your family and the other people around you. Care enough about your family to take care of yourself. In the first post in this series I reminded you that we are like an infusion pitcher, what we fill ourselves with is what we give out to our family, friends and work. You can read more about that in 5 Steps to Work Life Balance.
Here are some ideas:
Self Care with Exercise
Exercise releases good endorphins, which reduces anxiety and irritability. It also improves your mood and releases tension that contributes to the aches and pains you feel in your body.
- Walk in the woods
- Ride bike
- Roller Blade
- Dance around the house
- Play a dancing video game like Dance, Dance Revolution
- Ariel Arts
- Zumba
- Yoga
- Run/jog, try signing up for a 5k and train with a friend
- Eliptical
- Treadmill
- Walking video, if it is too cold outside
- Snowshoe
- X-country ski
- Hike at a state park
- Canoe
- Kayak
Self Care by Relaxing
When you calm your mind you also relax your body, which makes everything feel more doable.
- Focus on your breath
- Close your eyes and imagine you are in your favorite peaceful place
- Take a nap
- Take a hot bath
Self Care by Connecting with Another Person
A healthy support system goes a long way towards making the burdens of life lighter. Friends multiply our joys and divide our sorrows.
- Call a friend
- Schedule time for coffee, appetizers or a walk with a friend
- Join a book club, bowling team, softball team or any other group that is fun for you
- Swap a meal with a friend, you make dinner for both families this week and the other parent returns the favor next week
Self Care by Nurturing Spirituality
When life is too much to handle it helps to know that there is someone you can turn to who can handle it. Consistent spiritual practice keeps you even-keeled during the storms of life.
- Try Christian centering prayer, listening to God, instead of talking
- Meditate on a Bible verse
- Pray
- Join a Bible study
Self Care with Healthy Escape
- Read a good novel
- Watch a funny or sweet movie
Self care is so important to me – I know when I need a minute to myself (which is often with two kids!). My prayer is that moms do find the time to take care of themselves. I believe it’s critical. Great post!
Thanks, Kim, as parents we set the emotional tone of our home, so to have a healthy environment we need to take care of ourselves too.
This is a great article and reminder for me! I think the best way I can take care of myself is in some alone time with God or with a friend out eating a great meal!
Thanks, Jehava, time with God or a friend are great ways to practice self care.