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As a stay at home and homeschool mom, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to take care of ourselves. But self care is so important for our physical and mental well-being! Here are 10 self care tips to take care of ourselves in the midst of our busy lives.
Meditation or Journaling
Starting your day with a few minutes of meditation and journaling can be a great way to practice self care and set the tone for the rest of your day. Meditation can help you relax and focus your mind, while journaling allows you to process your thoughts and emotions. You can find guided meditation apps such as Headspace or Calm that can help you get started, or you can try a simple breathing exercise like focusing on your breath and counting to ten. When it comes to journaling, you can use a traditional notebook and pen or try a digital journaling app like Day One or Journey. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.
Exercise for Self care
Exercise is an important part of self care, and it’s possible to fit it in even with kids around. If you have young children, you can try going for a walk or jog with a stroller or doing a workout video that the kids can join in on. For older kids, you can encourage them to join you for a family bike ride or hike. You can also try finding a local gym or community center that offers childcare while you work out.
If you’re short on time, there are also plenty of quick and effective workouts that you can do at home with minimal equipment. Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve energy levels, mood, and overall well-being, so it’s worth making the effort to fit it into your busy schedule. Even just short 5 minute walk can help!
Showers or Bath
This may sound silly but finding time for a shower or bath can be a challenge when you’re a busy stay at home and homeschool mom. But taking a few minutes to pamper yourself can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. If you’re struggling to find time for a shower or bath, try setting aside a specific time each day, such as first thing in the morning or before bed.
One example is to give your kids their morning baskets and take advantage of the time they are entertained and working on those. By making a routine, it will end up becoming a definite part of your day instead of an if I have time task. If you have a small bathroom and no door to close, try using a shower curtain or screen to create a sense of privacy. Finally, consider investing in some luxurious bath products or adding some Epsom salts or essential oils to your bath to make it feel more indulgent.
Go to a Spa or Salon
Treating yourself to a spa or salon visit can be a great way to practice self-care and feel pampered. While it’s not something you can do every day, going once in a while can be a nice indulgence. You might consider getting a massage, facial, or other spa treatment, or splurging on a haircut or manicure. You can also consider turning your home into a spa for the day by running a bubble bath, lighting some candles, and putting on some relaxing music.
If you’re feeling especially stressed, you might consider booking a whole day at the spa or salon to really relax and unwind. Just remember to set aside some time to enjoy the experience and let go of any guilt! Taking care of yourself is not selfish.
Finding a Hobby
Finding and spending time on a hobby that brings you joy is an important part of self care. Whether it’s painting, knitting, writing, or something else entirely, having a creative outlet can be a great way to relax and recharge. If you’re not sure what hobby you’d like to try, consider exploring different activities and see what interests you. You might also ask friends or family members for recommendations or take a class to learn a new skill.
Once you’ve found a hobby you enjoy, try to set aside regular time to work on it. This might mean waking up a little earlier, staying up a little later, or finding pockets of time during the day. Remember that it’s okay to start small and work your way up – the important thing is to find something that brings you joy and helps you relax.
Night out with Friends
It’s easy to lose ourselves in the daily demands of parenting, but it’s important to make time for social connections and friendships. One way to do this is by scheduling a regular night out with friends. Whether it’s a dinner out, a movie night, or just hanging out at someone’s house, taking a break from your usual routine and spending time with people you enjoy can be a great way to de-stress and have some fun.
If you’re having trouble finding time for a night out, consider asking a trusted family member or babysitter to watch the kids so you can have some time to yourself. You can also try coordinating with other parents to take turns watching each other’s kids or hiring a babysitter to watch all the kids together. Remember that it’s okay to put yourself first and prioritize your own well-being once in a while – you’ll be a better parent and homemaker for it.
Read a Great Book
Reading a great book can be a wonderful way to practice self-care and relax. Whether you’re into fiction, non-fiction, or something in between, the act of getting lost in a good book can be a great escape from the demands of everyday life. Not only is reading enjoyable, but it also has numerous benefits for our brains.
Studies have shown that reading can improve memory, reduce stress, and increase empathy, among other things. Reading also helps keep our brains sharp by exposing us to new ideas and concepts, which can help prevent cognitive decline as we age. So the next time you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, consider curling up with a good book. Your brain (and your inner bookworm) will thank you.
Know how to Say No
It’s easy to feel like we have to say yes to everything that comes our way. But learning how to say no is an important part of self-care. By setting boundaries and prioritizing our time and energy, we can prevent ourselves from becoming overwhelmed and burnt out. Saying no doesn’t have to be a negative experience – it can be a way to respect ourselves and our own needs.
If you’re struggling to say no, try reminding yourself that it’s okay to prioritize your own well-being. You can also practice saying no in a friendly but firm way, such as by saying “I’m sorry, but I’m unable to commit to that at this time” or “Thank you for thinking of me, but I need to focus on my own priorities right now.” Remember that it’s okay to put yourself first and say no to things that don’t align with your values or priorities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, practicing self care as a stay at home and homeschool mom is essential for our physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s taking a few minutes for morning meditation, going for a walk or run, or treating ourselves to a spa day, there are countless ways to prioritize self care in the midst of our busy lives. By finding activities that nourish our bodies, minds, and souls, we can stay energized and focused as we juggle the many roles and responsibilities of raising kids and homeschooling. So don’t be afraid to make time for yourself and remember that it’s okay to put yourself first once in a while. You deserve it!
What does it mean to do self-care?
Self-care refers to the actions and practices individuals take in order to maintain their physical, mental, and emotional health. This can include things like exercising, eating well, getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and seeking professional help when needed. It’s about being intentional in taking care of oneself and prioritizing one’s own well-being. It can also include things like taking a relaxing bath, reading a book, or spending time with friends and family. The goal is to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy balance in life
What are the 7 pillars of self-care?
The “7 pillars of self-care” is a concept that has been popularized in recent years to represent the different areas of one’s life that contribute to overall well-being. While there isn’t one universally accepted list of the 7 pillars, some commonly recognized areas include:
Physical self-care: Taking care of one’s physical health through exercise, proper nutrition, and regular medical check-ups.
Emotional self-care: Managing and expressing one’s emotions in a healthy way, such as through therapy or journaling.
Mental self-care: Keeping the mind healthy through activities like reading, learning, and practicing mindfulness.
Spiritual self-care: Connecting with a higher power or sense of purpose, whether through religion or personal beliefs.
Social self-care: Building and maintaining healthy relationships with friends, family, and community.
Professional self-care: Prioritizing self-care in the workplace, whether through setting boundaries or finding work-life balance.
Environmental self-care: Taking care of the environment, whether through recycling or reducing consumption, and living in a space that is comfortable and nourishing.
It’s important to note that self-care is a personal and fluid concept that may differ from person to person. Some people may have additional pillars such as financial self-care or creative self-care.
How do I cope with stress?
Mothers often have a lot on their plate, with responsibilities that can include caring for their children, managing the household, and working; whether in an office or from home. This can lead to a lot of stress and pressure, especially during times of uncertainty or change. To cope with stress, mothers may find it helpful to set boundaries and make time for themselves, whether it’s through exercise, hobbies, or just taking a few minutes to relax and breathe. It’s also important for them to find support from friends, family, or a therapist. Communicate their needs to their partner and to be open for support and help can be extremely beneficial. They should also be aware of their limits, and ask for help when they need it, whether that be from family, friends, or community resources. Practicing self care and self compassion is important for moms to maintain their well-being, physically and mentally.
