I wanted to share my list of self-care for parents ideas because I know as busy parent’s we can often find our days are like a never-ending to-do list, as soon as we have finished one thing it is straight on to the next.
As well as looking after our children, there is cleaning, chores and for some of us, work to fit in as well. With life being so busy it is hard to remember to take time out for ourselves to ensure that we have some me time and do not become run down.
As parents, we tend to put our self-care last and focus more on our children’s care when in fact taking care of ourselves should be number 1 priority as when we are burnt out we are unable to care for the rest of the family.
As they say in the aeroplane safety briefing before the plane takes off, ‘always put your breathing mask on first before helping others’, they say this for the simple fact that if you take care of yourself first you are then in a better position to help others afterwards. The same goes for self-care, look after yourself first then you will be in a better position to give your children the best care.
I have to admit I have not been the best at self-care and often put myself last but I have been making more of an effort lately and have noticed the improvement in my family life when I am chilled and happy so is the rest of the family.
Self-Care for Parents
Take 10
With our busy lives, time is always an issue when trying to fit in self-care and we can’t take a few hours off every day to refresh. This is where we need to ensure that we take at least 10 mins to ourselves a day. I have incorporated this into my everyday routine with a tea break. Every day after finishing work and getting back from the school run I will make a cup of tea and sit down on the sofa and drink it slowly. If anyone wants anything from me they are going to have to wait until I have finished. It is amazing what just a 10-minute refresh can do for your mind and body.
Exercise
Exercise is a great way to clear our heads and help us stay focused. If you are feeling stressed then a great way to unwind is yoga. Yoga has the unique ability to help melt away stress and help your mind to focus on what is important. It will leave you feeling calm and relaxed and after doing it regularly you will feel healthier and stronger. (For more on yoga take a look at my post Why parents need yoga)
Going for a walk or a run is also a great way to get some you time because as well as getting exercise you are also getting fresh air.
Taking time out to go to the gym, an exercise class or any type of exercise that you enjoy will leave you feeling energised and invigorated and ready to take on the challenges life throws at us.
Planning
I know planning can seem an odd thing to put for self-care but sometimes if we really look at our busy lives and take the time to sit down and plan out our week you will find that you can slot in a few hours here and there for ourselves. Whether that would be in the morning before the children wake up, a little time while they are at school/nursery or when they have gone to bed. If you usually spend this time filled with chores plan in that one day a week you are going to forget all about the chores and take some time for yourself.
If you are looking for a good planner take a look at my post on The Ultimate Diary Planner. or take a look at Ladies that Plan.
Hobbies
Find a hobby that you enjoy doing and set yourself some time during the week to carry it out. I love to read so every night before I go to sleep I sit up and read a bit of my book, some nights I can only manage a page or two as I am so tired and other days I can read for hours. There are lots of hobbies out there like knitting, drawing, baking, listening to music the list is endless you just need to find something you enjoy and try to set some time aside to do it.
Music
Music for me is one of the best ways for me to de-stress and go into my own little world. Even if I am still doing the housework putting my headphones on and dancing around the kitchen whilst mopping is the perfect way to forget your troubles. I also quite often put the radio on in the morning while we are all getting ready as I feel it motivates us more and I also listen to my i-pod on my walk to and from work which helps me relax and switch off for a few minutes. (For more on how music can benefit families read my post on how music brings families together).
Baths
Now, this may be a lot higher on some peoples list but for me, baths are very rare. I am a shower person as they are quick, easy and get the job done and I don’t have much time for baths. That being said when I am feeling run down taking the time to have a nice warm relaxing bath can really help.
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Conclusion
We are all different and all have our own unique ways to help us relax and unwind, whatever they maybe we all need to ensure that we are setting aside some time no matter how big or small in our busy lives to take care of ourselves.
Self-care for parents is so important, please do leave a comment and let us know how you implement regular self-care.
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Why not take a look at my other posts –
Art is good for the soul (even if you are not very good at it)
Ways to help children improve their mental health and well-being